A DOMESTIC violence victim whose case has been adjourned for nearly a year is disillusioned with the justice system, saying court issues took too long and there was little back-up for victims.
The woman, who is not being named to protect her identity and because the matter is still before court, said legal delays hampered efforts to encourage people to report crime.
“They are trying to crack down on domestic violence and get people to come forward, but perpetrators think they have got away with it because the court system takes so long,” she said.
“When we do report domestic violence we are treated like we’re a burden and there is no emotional support.
“Justice delayed is justice denied.”
A spokesperson for Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath said it was difficult to comment on individual cases, but the government was making changes.
He said $200 million had been allocated to tackling family violence in the current budget, including $42.4 million over four years to roll out specialist domestic violence courts.
“The vast majority of recommendations stemming from the landmark Not Now, Not Ever report have already been implemented,” he said.
“The changes also ensure that victims of domestic violence have ‘special witness’ status, so they do not have to face their attackers when testifying.”
Prevention of Family Violence Minister Shannon Fentiman said the government was funding the Working Against Violence Support Service (WAVSS) to provide court-based services to women who had proceedings before the Cleveland and Wynnum Magistrates courts.
“The service assists clients to be aware of the court process and helps them to understand the practical effect of domestic violence orders and other actions of the court.”
However, the victim told the Bulletin she had been offered telephone counselling, but had no support through the court process since she asked police to pursue the charges a few months after the last incident.
“When I removed myself from the situation, I wasn’t scared anymore,” she said.
“I realised that he shouldn't get away with what he did to me.”
But since then she has questioned whether she should have gone ahead.
“I wonder if I have done the right thing, or if I have just made myself look like an idiot,” she said.
The woman attended court several times with family members, who took time off work, but stopped going after a number of adjournments.
When the matter came before court again recently, she decide to attend again, but her ex-partner failed to turn up and the matter was adjourned again.
“I just left the court in tears when they told me that,” she said.
The woman said going to court was nerve-wracking and every court date reminded her of what had happened.
“It dredges everything up. It is like a never ending roller-coaster and I just want to get off.”
The woman said she found the court system confusing and support for victims lacking.
“I have never been on the wrong side of the law so I have no idea how the court works,” she said.
While the accused had a defence lawyer, the woman said there was no one to liaise with and support victims.
“The police officer I dealt with has left and no one has been re-assigned to the case,” she said.
“There is no one I can phone to get an update on what is happening.”
Ms Fentiman said anyone who needed support to navigate the justice system should contact the Women’s Legal Service helpline on 1800 957 957.
