Jersey’s Justice and Home Affairs Department have launched a consultation today regarding the proposed Domestic Abuse (Jersey) Law.
The proposed Domestic abuse law was identified as a priority for the Government in the recent Domestic Homicide Review by the Jersey Safeguarding Partnership Board in August
The new law will create a statutory definition of domestic abuse for the first time and will acknowledge controlling and coercive behaviour as an offence, as well as recognising that abuse does not only occur in intimate relationships.
It provides for the making of domestic abuse protection notices and domestic abuse protection orders and the creation of a register of those who commit domestic abuse offences in order to prevent serious and repeat offenders.
Minister for Home Affairs Gregory Guida, commented: “The proposed Domestic Abuse Law is a first for Jersey and will be instrumental in providing stronger protection for victims. Delivering this law prior to the end of my term is one of my highest priorities. I would like to encourage as many Islanders as possible to engage in the consultation, especially victims of abuse. It is recognised that a cross-agency approach is needed and tackling abuse is not just about enforcement but also education and prevention.
“The law recognises that domestic abuse is more damaging and complex than simply violence. It will also allow for the creation of a domestic abuse register, similar to the sex offenders register, to manage serious and repeat offenders so potential partners could be protected.”
The annual Jersey Safeguarding Partnership Board and multi-agency domestic abuse campaign launches on 18 October and will focus on coercive control.
The consultation is open until 22nd November and can be accessed here.
