been victims of violence.

The Centre has recognised the trauma associated with court cases and is now considering hiring its own lawyer.

It aims to provide support throughout cases of assault or domestic violence particularly when they appear in court.

Chairperson Ms Shanda Simmons said: "The whole court process can be a traumatic experience especially when people have to relive the whole thing often a long time later.

"It could be months or even a year before the thing comes to court when it will mean reliving the assault all over again.'' One area of concern for the centre is the different attitude some Magistrates and Judges have towards domestic violence.

In the latest newsletter it states: "We are informed that although people do have the legal right to file directly for restraining orders, the petitioner needs to seek and be granted an audience with a magistrate and further, to be able to convince the judge that he or she is in imminent danger.

"Since many victims of domestic violence are woefully unprepared to argue their cases cogently before a judge, we are obliged to advise most of our clients, who are seeking restraining orders, to hire lawyers to assist them.'' The Centre is aware that many local victims do not have the money to hire lawyers to assist them.

The newsletter continued: "It is the Centre's position that this situation is unacceptable. Members of the public who fear for their safety should not be obliged to spend money to acquire the documents necessary to protect themselves.

"Either the procedure for obtaining a restraining order should be simplified or a Court Advocate should be hired to assist petitioners through the judicial labyrinth.

"The Centre has long had plans to hire a Court Advocate and will do so as soon as funds become available.'' Ms Simmons said it was hoped to have the lawyer on hand early in the New Year.

She said: "Most people do not know how the process works or what to expect throughout the whole process, or the types of questions they will be asked.

"We will try to guide them through the experience with as little trauma as possible.'' WOMEN WOM HEALTH HTH