"The establishment of the Domestic Violence Court is a landmark moment for our justice system," said Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Sen. The Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP.
The Government of Bermuda is preparing to take a watershed step in its commitment to protecting victims of domestic abuse with the upcoming launch of the Domestic Violence Court.
This initiative, a key component of the Government's broader justice reform efforts, is set to be fully operational in the coming months and will provide a focused, responsive, and supportive legal framework for survivors of domestic violence.
Minister Wilkerson reaffirmed the Government's dedication to this initiative, adding: "Domestic violence affects individuals, families, and our wider community, particularly our young people who may witness abuse in their formative years.
“This new court will provide swift access to legal protection, ensure urgent cases are handled, and prioritise support for survivors while holding perpetrators accountable."
Although the court is not officially in operation, steps have already been taken to implement its principles. Some domestic violence cases in the Magistrates' Court have been heard with the same urgency and victim-centred approach that will define the new court.
The Government has also laid the groundwork for a smooth transition by developing training programmes for judicial officers, law enforcement personnel, and support service providers.
These efforts will ensure that all involved parties are fully equipped to work within the specialised framework when the court begins hearing cases. The selection process for vendors to deliver perpetrator training programmes has now been completed.
The Domestic Violence Court will emphasise timely intervention, with a focus on accelerating access to protection orders and support services for victims.
It will also incorporate rehabilitative measures to address the root causes of abusive behaviour, including treatment programmes designed to prevent reoffending.
The demand for domestic violence-related legal assistance and intervention continues to grow. Between April and December 2024, the Women's Resource Centre (WRC) received:
- 50 reports of abuse
- 5 cases of harassment
- 205 requests for legal assistance
- During the same period, WRC issued 29 warning letters and referred 48 clients seeking protection orders or domestic violence assistance to the Centre Against Abuse (CAA).
- The Centre Against Abuse (CAA) has expressed strong support and enthusiasm for the establishment of a Specialist Domestic Abuse Court in Bermuda. Laurie Shiell, the executive director of CAA, stated: “Having advocated for this initiative for over a decade, CAA extends its gratitude to all involved in making this long-awaited development a reality.”
In 2024, CAA served 157 clients—150 women and seven men—providing vital safety and support to 173 children connected to those clients. CAA also delivered 297 legal advocacy services, including assisting 51 clients in obtaining Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs), a critical measure in ensuring survivor safety.
Clients in need of DVPOs or other legal advocacy services are encouraged to contact the CAA directly. Last year, the CAA provided 26 safe housing and resettlement services, further ensuring stability and security for those fleeing abusive situations.
Mrs Shiell added: “The introduction of a Specialist Domestic Abuse Court will provide crucial benefits, including:
- Trained domestic abuse personnel, including magistrates and court staff
- Consistent standards for domestic abuse cases
- Increased safety for victims within the courtroom setting
- A unified court for both criminal and civil domestic abuse matters
- Improved monitoring of offenders
- Court-ordered programs for offenders
- Expedited criminal court trials
- Enhanced data collection
- Greater public confidence in the justice system”
Mrs Shiell acknowledges that the effectiveness of the Specialist Domestic Abuse Court will depend on amendments to existing laws and policies and that CAA remains committed to working with the Government and other stakeholders to support the implementation of a Domestic Abuse Act and a National Domestic Abuse Awareness and Prevention Plan.
"Such measures would serve as a blueprint for addressing domestic abuse in Bermuda and ensuring clear repercussions for offenders,” Ms Shiell further stated.
"CAA continues to advocate for comprehensive measures to combat domestic abuse and stands ready to assist in the court’s development and implementation.”
These numbers highlight the urgent need for a more streamlined legal process to protect victims, hold offenders accountable, and ensure that survivors receive the support they need in a timely manner.
The establishment of the Domestic Violence Court directly addresses this need.
Minister Wilkerson highlighted the long-term benefits of this initiative, noting: "This is more than just a court—it is a commitment to ending the cycle of domestic violence in Bermuda.
“It will serve as a critical resource in protecting victims, preventing future harm, and promoting a compassionate and effective justice system.”
Domestic violence remains a significant challenge in Bermuda, affecting not only direct victims but also young people who may be exposed to violent home environments.
Research has shown that children who grow up in abusive households are at a greater risk of experiencing long-term emotional and psychological distress, impacting their academic performance, mental well-being, and future relationships.
The Ministry of Justice will continue to provide updates on the progress of the Domestic Violence Court as it nears its official launch.