Thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology.

The broad objective of this thesis is three-fold: to analyse the kinds of domestic violence incidents and people (offenders and victims) dealt with by the police; to analyse the criminal justice system's response to these; and to explore the extent to which recent police policy developments have improved the situation for victims of domestic violence. On the basis of an analysis of 270 police files and interviews with 24 victims of domestic violence, the findings of this research suggest that police policies focused solely on arrest and prosecution without regard to the needs of all victims of domestic violence. A number of recommendations are identified in an attempt to improve the situation of victims of domestic violence and make the criminal justice system more responsive to the needs of victims. These recommendations are made with respect to police policy and practice, court practices, counselling options, culturally appropriate interventions, and primary prevention interventions.--AUTHOR'S ABSTRACT