Session Description

Working with families who experience domestic violence is both difficult and complex. Domestic violence rarely occurs in isolation as it can intersect with poverty, substance misuse, mental health challenges, and child abuse/neglect within the child welfare system. For professionals, this intersection raises critical questions about how to best work with people who perpetrate abuse. Domestic violence is not simply another case type; it requires a specialized knowledge base and skill set.                                       

This session will primarily focus on working with abusers and exploring strategies to hold them accountable within the juvenile court system. Accountability is often complicated by the rehabilitative nature of child welfare systems. Evidence demonstrates, however, that accountability and rehabilitation are not mutually exclusive. Both can be pursued simultaneously to enhance safety for children and survivors.

The question of “Why do they do that?” is often asked when confronted with the actions of abusers. This session will address that question directly by examining the profile of abusers, common myths, and contributing factors to domestic violence. Participants will also hear perspectives from experienced juvenile court professionals, including a county attorney, guardian ad litem, and former caseworker, on approaches that balance child welfare’s rehabilitative goals with meaningful accountability for those who perpetrate harm. Through these discussions, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of domestic violence and the tools available to address it effectively within juvenile court.

Learning objectives