This Benchbook covers domestic violence law and precedent as it pertains to the Magisterial District Courts. The first chapter explores circumstances where the district judge may encounter domestic violence, ways it may effect proceedings, and the judge's powers to safeguard families and communities by holding offenders accountable. Other chapters review the intersections between domestic abuse and bail hearings, protection orders, victim and court safety and other civil proceedings. The Benchbook highlights the critical role of the magisterial district judge in assessing cases for coercion and abuse that could derail justice if left unexamined.

For more information or questions about the MDJ Benchbook, please contact PCADV at 888-235-3425.

This project was supported by subgrant No. 26422 awarded by PCCD, to the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC) and from the AOPC to PCADV by means of a passthrough agreement. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of PCCD, AOPC or the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.