This handbook is a compilation of the research, best practices, and knowledge that experts in the area of family violence would agree are essential to effective response by the criminal justice system.

The Alberta Government’s dedication to ending family violence is ongoing, and as such, this electronic handbook will continue to be updated.

Last Updated: June 2008

Domestic Violence Handbook: for Police and Crown Prosecutors in Alberta (Full Document) - 2.26 MB

Handbook – 982 KB

Table of Contents

1. Preface
2. Introduction
3. Definition of Domestic Violence
4. Family Violence Initiatives in Alberta
5. What We Know About Domestic Violence
6. Understanding the Abuser
7. Understanding the Victims of Domestic Violence
8. Aboriginal Victims of Domestic Violence
9. Children Exposed to Family Violence
10. Best Practices for Police Investigating Domestic Violence
11. Gathering and Documenting Evidence
12. Investigating Criminal Harassment
13. Dominant Aggressor / Dual Charging
14. Strangulation / Choking
15. Assessing Risk for Further Violence
16. Primary Risk Factors for Homicide
17. Safety Planning for Victims
18. Show Cause Hearings
19. Best Practices for Crown Prosecutors Addressing Victim’s Issues
20. Review of Civil Orders Used in Domestic Violence Cases
21. Firearms
22. Sentencing Domestic Violence Cases
23. Information for Victims of Crime
24. Elder Abuse
25. Relationship Between Animal (Pet) Abuse and Family Violence
26. Domestic Violence and People Who Have a Disability
27. Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transsexual Victims of Domestic Violence
28. Language Barriers and Immigration Status
29. Coordination and Collaboration
30. A True Story
31. Bibliography

Appendices – 1.86 MB

1. Signs to Look for in a Battering Personality
2. Safety Planning Materials
3. “211” Community Connection Telephone Service
4. Reminders for Domestic Violence Work with Children
5. Children’s Services Referral Form (Sample form for police to report children exposed to violence)
6. Information Sheet - How Can Safe Visitation Services Support You?
7. Information Sheet on Sworn Videotaped Statements in Domestic Violence Occurrences
8. Domestic History Questionnaire
9. Spousal Violence Investigation (sample form)
10. Strangulation Documentation Form
11. Domestic Violence Strangulation Investigation form
12. Questioning the Expert in Strangulation Cases
13. Schedule of Emergency Women’s Shelters in Alberta Justice
14. Supports for Albertans Fleeing Abuse
15. Agencies to Assist Victims of Crime
16. Notification and Protection Guidelines for Victims of Domestic Violence
17. Emergency Protection Orders (EPO) – related forms
18. Sentencing Checklist - Adults
19. Family Protection Unit – Probation Order
20. Information for Victims of Crime - Victim Impact Statement