Justice metamorphosis: Moving from reactive to proactive strategies to remotely protect families from intimate partner violence

Abstract

The pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote access to courts through e-filing and virtual hearings. Concurrently, courts experienced an increase in intimate partner violence cases due in part to heightened stress during the pandemic. Virtual technology became crucial for individuals seeking relief from harm when traditional support systems were limited. However, remote proceedings lack the personal connection found in-person, making it challenging to handle complex cases involving parenting and intimate partner violence. Courts must strike a balance between protecting parents and children from abuse and ensuring due process and appropriate parenting time for the accused party. Some courts have considered the user experience in intimate partner violence and parenting cases, but as remote justice become the norm, it is essential for all courts to evaluate and refine the tools, policies, and procedures put in place during the emergency response to the pandemic to be more proactive in supporting court users. State courts in Kansas, North Carolina, and Arizona are cited as examples for efforts to enhance remote justice efficiency and quality in these cases involving intimate partner violence and parenting. Further research is recommended to explore the challenges and possibilities of using virtual technology in these situations.