Nova Scotia’s domestic violence court sees rise in counselling-based cases, aiming to address abuse through support, not just sentencing.
Nova Scotia Program Tackles Abuse with Counselling
As domestic violence rates in Nova Scotia rise, a specialized court program in Halifax is drawing attention for using counselling instead of incarceration to address abusive behaviour. The Domestic Violence Court Program, launched in 2018, reports a 30% increase in applications between March and May 2025, as officials and researchers evaluate its impact on long-term prevention.
Court Designed for Healing, Not Just Punishment
The court aims to reduce reoffending by offering structured counselling to individuals who plead guilty to domestic violence charges. Once accepted, participants undergo group or individual therapy, often over a period of up to 10 months, with progress reviewed weekly by court officials and therapists.
Crown Attorney Jennifer Crewe explains, “This program focuses on meaningful change. It’s not about leniency—it’s about accountability and rehabilitation.”
Who’s Applying and Why It’s Evolving
Since 2018, 1,146 people have applied, with about 78% being men and 21% women. But the program is changing. Legal Aid lawyer Matthew Darrah noted an increase in applicants who are youth, newcomers, or unhoused—many of whom face compounding social challenges that make traditional legal responses insufficient.
“We’re seeing more cases where the accused and victim live in the same encampment,” Darrah said. “A no-contact order becomes hard to comply with when you’re both homeless.”
Mixed Results and Difficult Metrics
While some believe the court fosters better emotional regulation and personal insight, experts like Dr. Diane Crocker from Saint Mary’s University caution that it’s difficult to measure whether it truly reduces future violence.
“There’s anecdotal evidence of changed behaviour,” Crocker said. “But quantifying long-term impact remains a challenge.”
Even so, the court’s expansion—including accepting youth cases and using interpreters for newcomers—signals a belief in early intervention and accessibility.
Support Systems and Community Investment
The Transition House Association of Nova Scotia reports a 182% increase in women and children seeking help since 2019. In response, the province has committed new funding and is developing an “engagement table” to integrate lived experiences and expert guidance.
Despite its promise, the program isn’t for everyone. 210 applicants were denied entry, often due to risk assessments or refusal to plead guilty. Another 102 participants failed to complete the program and were sent back to traditional sentencing.
As Nova Scotia continues to treat domestic violence as a public health crisis, the Halifax Domestic Violence Court Program serves as a test case for rehabilitation-focused justice. While imperfect, it represents a shift in strategy—one that leans into prevention, not just punishment.
“The stakes are too high not to try,” said Crewe. “This is about saving families, not just managing court dockets.”
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