Bill > HB454

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for creating domestic abuse courts in Mississippi, with the primary goal of improving victim safety and offender accountability. The bill defines a domestic abuse court as a specialized court that brings together criminal justice professionals, social service providers, and intensive judicial monitoring to address domestic violence cases holistically. Any chancery or county court may establish a domestic abuse court program, with municipal and justice courts allowed to participate. The Administrative Office of Courts will develop uniform standards for operating these courts, including provisions for establishing the court, funding, procedural matters, referral protocols, participant eligibility, and service availability. The bill creates a special Domestic Abuse Court Fund in the State Treasury, which will be funded through various sources including legislative appropriations, interest, and a $1 assessment on certain legal violations. Domestic abuse courts will be able to hire necessary staff like administrators, case managers, and counselors, and they may apply for gifts, grants, and other financial assistance. The bill emphasizes that participation in a domestic abuse court is not guaranteed, and the courts will focus on linking victims and offenders to appropriate community services while providing centralized monitoring of cases. The legislation defines domestic abuse using existing legal definitions and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0454.xml