Domestic violence is a problem of epidemic proportions in our communities.
Nearly one in three American women say they have been physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives. Every day, hundreds of victims of domestic violence turn to the criminal justice system for protection. While great strides have been made in recent years to strengthen laws and educate judges on how to address domestic violence cases effectively, there is still work to be done. The judge sets the tone in the courtroom and makes the most critical decisions affecting the lives of the victim, perpetrator, and children. The Family Violence Prevention Fund's Judicial Education Project seeks to enhance the safety of battered women and their children and hold batterers accountable for their conduct by educating judges on how their decisions can play a critical role in preventing domestic violence injuries and deaths.