Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004

Summary

The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 strengthened protection for victims of domestic violence, created the offence of causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable adult, and established the Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses.

Key Points

• Made breach of a non-molestation order a criminal offence (s.1)
• Common assault made an arrestable offence
• Causing or allowing death/serious harm of a child or vulnerable adult (s.5) — household members liable
• Victims' Commissioner established
• Code of Practice for Victims of Crime
• Restraining orders available on acquittal (s.12)

Parts & Sections

Amendments History