Moncton provincial court-domestic violence pilot project: a comparative study

Description

This report presents the results of a study of domestic violence cases processed through the Moncton Provincial Court-Domestic Violence Pilot Project model based on a comparison with the Fredericton Provincial Court, over an 18-month period. The report provides an analysis of demographics of accused and victims, incidents, charges, and sentences in domestic violence cases, documenting who is entering into the court systems in Moncton and Fredericton and how cases are processed under specialization versus regular court. Through the presentation of findings, the comparison provides information on the unique differences of the Moncton court. This report highlights strengths and weaknesses in the early operation of the Moncton court, identifies potential gaps in the court model, and provides an understanding of some of the intended effects and potential unintended effects of specialization.