Domestic Violence Court - Penticton

Uses an expedited case management approach where intimate partner violence cases must be set for trial within 60 days to ensure the safety of victims and the public; to offer a less punitive, more therapeutic approach for those willing to accept responsibility and seek treatment; and to reduce unwarranted victim recantation or other witness-related problems. The complainant is the only prosecution witness scheduled for this trial date. If the trial proceeds and more witnesses are needed, the trial will be continued within 30 days. Court operates alongside a Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), which includes a team of two police officers, a Ministry of Children and Family Development child protection worker, and a community-based victim service worker from the Elizabeth Fry Society. They all work in the same office to facilitate communication, triage cases promptly, co-ordinate safety planning, and liaise with the designated Crown prosecutor responsible for domestic violence trials.