Judges who may lack experience and training in handling these cases are forced to make decisions that affect the most fundamental and intimate aspects of children's and parents' lives. Now, judges will have access to a continuing education program that provides critical training and background on domestic violence issues in custody disputes. Its release follows the high-profile O.J. Simpson custody battle. Simpson received custody of his two children after having been acquitted of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman in criminal court. He had admitted beating his wife in the past.
Cases involving domestic violence issues are even more complex.
This curriculum is designed to help judges with the special challenges involved in these cases. The curriculum was developed over two years and was tested in Ohio and Arizona. Approximately 40 judges participated in each of the pilot-test programs. Participating judges rated the content and format very favorably. When asked three months later to evaluate the effectiveness of the program, the majority of judges said they changed the way they handled custody and visitation cases involving domestic violence as a result of attending the course.