Supporting Community Justice: Legal Interventions in Addressing Domestic Violence and Child Abuse

Abstract

Introduction: Domestic violence and child abuse are widespread problems that deeply affect individuals and communities in Indonesia. These issues often go unreported or unresolved due to cultural stigma, lack of legal awareness, and limited access to legal services.
Purpose: This paper investigates the role of legal interventions in addressing domestic violence and child abuse within communities, with a focus on how legal aid and advocacy can empower victims and provide justice.
Method: The research uses qualitative interviews with victims, legal aid workers, and social workers, along with a review of relevant case studies of legal interventions in domestic violence and child abuse cases in Indonesia.
Findings and Results: The study finds that legal interventions, such as the establishment of domestic violence courts and child protection programs, significantly improve the safety and rights of victims. However, many victims still face barriers in accessing legal support, including fear of retaliation and lack of resources.
Urgency: Domestic violence and child abuse continue to cause long-lasting harm to individuals, especially women and children. Immediate legal support is crucial in preventing further violence and ensuring justice for victims.
Contribution: This paper contributes to understanding how legal systems can be strengthened to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse and how community justice initiatives can provide more accessible legal support.
Recommendation: The study recommends expanding legal aid services for victims of domestic violence and child abuse, and increasing public awareness on legal protections available to victims.