The Domestic Abuse (Jersey) Law 2022 officially came into force on 21 June. Provisions include making domestic abuse a specific crime with a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
The new legislation gives courts powers to impose domestic abuse protection orders (DAPOs) and notification requirements on people convicted of domestic abuse or similar offences. Additionally, when considering sentence courts can treat the involvement of a child as an aggravating factor.
The new law covers acts committed outside Jersey if the offender is usually resident on the island. Jersey’s legislators approved the act April last year and its coming into force “sends a clear message that domestic abuse will not be tolerated,” said home affairs minister Helen Miles.
“We are also working closely with the Violence Against Women and Girls Taskforce to identify any further resources, additional legislative reforms and required methods of protection,” she added.
