Remote trials launched for victims of abuse in Dubai

Dubai - A teletrials chamber has been established so that victims of domestic violence and human trafficking won't have to go to a courtroom for judicial hearings.

Virtual court trials can now be held for abuse victims sheltered at the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC), it was announced on Tuesday, August 4.
A teletrials chamber has been established at the foundation so that victims of domestic violence and human trafficking won't have to go to a courtroom for judicial hearings. Shaikha Al Mansouri, acting director-general of the DFWAC, said the initiative will not only keep women and children safe from the Covid-19 virus, it will also help protect their wellbeing.
Last year, the foundation has attended to 102 cases of violence and abuse, Al Mansouri said. Now, with the remote trial option, the process will be easier and faster for the DFWAC and the authorities.
In general, if any judicial body wishes to conduct an investigation involving a victim at the shelter, the authority will just have to send a link to the foundation so that a hearing can be done at the teletrials chamber, Al Mansouri explained.
During the session, an image of the victim and that of the representative of the authorities would appear on the screen. Files can be exchanged and the session is kept in electronic records.
Legal aid is part of the integrated system of social, psychological, health and educational services that the DFWAC offers, Al Mansouri said. Recreational activities and skills training workshops are also conducted to help abuse victims recover, get back on their feet, and start anew.
She called on the public not to hesitate to contact the foundation through the helpline 800111 for assistance or family counselling, as well as to report cases of violence or abuse.
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• Dubai