New domestic violence court opens

A special court to deal solely with cases of domestic violence has opened in Leicestershire.

The Specialist Domestic Violence Court (SDVC) is part of the new Loughborough magistrates' court.

There is already a network of about 100 similar courts across England and Wales which unite counselling resources with the police and courts.

The magistrates and court staff are all trained in dealing with domestic violence cases.

'More confident'

The five-courtroom complex has includes secure waiting areas and video links for vulnerable witnesses so they can give evidence without having to appear in a courtroom.

The SDVC will have dedicated criminal justice staff and specially trained magistrates.

Bridget Prentice, Courts Minister, said: "I am delighted this has just been accredited as a Specialist Domestic Violence Court.

"Victims of domestic violence in the Loughborough area will now be able to feel far more confident in attending court to give evidence."

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