Individuals Who Experience Intimate Partner Violence and Their Engagement with the Legal System: Critical Considerations for Agency and Power

Abstract

This Article explores the complexities of intimate partner violence (“IPV”) victim-survivors’ engagement with the legal system, emphasizing the need for culturally responsive and trauma-informed legal interventions. It highlights how intersectional identities and systemic factors shape the experience and decisions of a victim-survivor regarding legal involvement. The Article critiques current legal responses to IPV for often exacerbating trauma and undermining victim survivors’ autonomy. It argues for a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the unique needs and challenges faced by diverse victim-survivors and advocates for systemic reforms. The Article underscores the importance of incorporating intersectional and social-ecological perspectives in legal responses, recommending trauma-informed, healing-centered practices and culturally responsive interventions to better support IPV victim-survivors and facilitate their recovery.