Government wants to expand support for victims of violence in court

The federal government intends to significantly expand the right to psychosocial procedural support for victims of serious crimes. The federal cabinet has initiated a corresponding draft law that aims to facilitate access to this assistance and improve the financial compensation for support personnel.

This was reported by evangelisch.de. So far, mainly children and adolescents have been entitled to this form of support after violence or sexual offenses, but they have had to apply for it themselves. In the future, this hurdle is to be removed. Adults should also gain easier access, as the requirement of special need for protection, such as in cases of cognitive impairments, is to be eliminated. Additionally, it is planned to enable victims of domestic violence to receive free legal representation.

Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig emphasized that the planned steps are embedded in a comprehensive strategy for more effective combating of violence. In the future, authorities and courts should be obligated to proactively inform those affected about their rights. Currently, psychosocial procedural support is utilized in approximately 1,500 to 1,700 cases annually in Germany.

Previously, UOJ reported that the Central Council of Muslims suspended ATIB's membership.

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