Under the Rule of Thumb: Battered Women and the Administration of Justice

摘要

The report of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights evaluates the treatment of women who are victims of domestic violence by the criminal and civil justice systems and by various social service agencies. Although wife beating is a crime in every State, the law has often failed to protect these victims. The Commission's report reveals that at each stage of the criminal justice system, a significant number of abused wives are turned away, with the result that few ever obtain relief. Police officers, prosecutors, and judges often fail to take appropriate action, treating spouse abuse not as a crime against society, but as a private family matter. The report also finds that a woman who must flee her home to escape assault often has complex financial and emotional needs, served by inadequately supported social service programs, including shelters. Data for the report were compiled from field studies and hearings in Phoenix, Ariz., and Harrisburg, Pa., in 1980. Topics specifically addressed include the law, the police, prosecutors, the courts, diversion programs, and shelters and social services. Recommendations are given for each of these areas of concern.