South Africa will pilot a system to facilitate online application for protection orders, which will be tested in several provinces. This will make it easier for victims of domestic violence to obtain protection from perpetrators.
On any given day, almost all South African domestic violence courts are overwhelmed by applications for protection orders, each application requiring personal attention from staff and presiding officers. Even applicants who arrive at court before its doors open can expect to wait until late in the day to be assisted. Applicants must also attend court during office hours, whilst losing out on income and incurring the cost of travel, which, for the vast majority of South Africans, is simply not affordable.
The Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2021 amends the Domestic Violence Act, 1998, and provides for the manner in which acts of domestic violence and matters related thereto must be dealt with. The Amendment Act provides for electronic submission of applications to an email address of the court having jurisdiction.
An online system for applying for protection orders represents a significant step forward in the fight against domestic violence in South Africa. By making it easier and more accessible for victims to obtain the protection they need, such a system will dramatically improve the lives of victims of domestic violence.
