Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE has introduced stricter penalties for domestic violence and related offenses, as stated in a new law published in the government's Official Gazette. The new domestic violence law seeks to provide stronger protection for victims of different types of abuse—such as physical, psychological, sexual, and financial—while creating a thorough support system for the victims. Here is the list of penalties and fines under the new domestic violence law: Anyone found guilty of domestic violence - imprisonment and/or a fine of up to Dh50,000. Anyone who fails to report an abuse case - fine ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000. Anyone who submits a false report about a domestic violence incident - fine ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000. Violating a protection order - imprisonment and/or a fine between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000. Violating a protection order+violence or coercion - at least six months in prison and/or a fine ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh100,000. Anyone who shares confidential details about a domestic violence case learned through their job or exposes the victim's identity - imprisonment and/or a minimum fine of Dh20,000. Anyone who coerces or threatens a domestic violence victim to retract their complaint - imprisonment and/or a fine between Dh10,000 and Dh50,000. Harsher penalties will apply if the victim is the offender's parent, an elder over 60, a pregnant woman, a child, a person with a disability, or someone incapacitated. Repeating domestic violence within a year of a previous offense will also be treated as an aggravating factor. The new law also states that reconciliation between parties can only occur with the victim's full consent and approval from prosecutors, prioritizing their safety above all else. Protection order The court may issue a protection order if it discovers domestic violence during a criminal case. This order may remain in effect for up to six months while the case is active. If needed, the court can extend the order for an additional 12 months after the final judgement, upon request from either the Public Prosecution or the victim. The Public Prosecution or a court may implement one or more of the following measures: - Prohibition against any form of contact with the victim - Prohibition from approaching places designated for the victim's protection or any other location, including the victim’s home or workplace. - Placement of the victim, with their consent, in a shelter, a relative's home, or any safe location. - An order requiring the offender to provide financial support to the victim, including payment for medical expenses resulting from the domestic violence. - Prohibition on any actions that may harm the victim's interests, including their property and personal belongings. - An order requiring the offender to participate in social or psychological counselling sessions. - Implementation of any other measures considered necessary by the authorities. The protection order for the victim can be issued for up to 30 days and may be extended twice for the same duration. Reporting violence Victims have the right to report any cases of domestic violence. Anyone aware of such an incident— a family member, healthcare professional, educator, social worker, psychologist, sports service provider, or any community member—must report it immediately. The identities of individuals who report domestic violence will be kept confidential unless disclosure is necessary for legal actions. Cases of physical or sexual violence should be reported immediately to the police, who will implement the necessary legal procedures. Upon receiving a domestic violence report, the ministry, relevant authority, and social support center are required to document the report, including its nature and specifics of the incident. The authority is required to implement protective measures for the victim, which may include placing them in a shelter or with a relative if needed. They must gather statements from all involved parties and witnesses in a confidential and supportive setting, ensuring that the information is accurately documented through written, audio, or visual methods. The authority must also refer the victim to a healthcare facility, if necessary, to obtain a medical report on their condition and prepare a detailed incident report. This report should then be submitted to the Public Prosecution along with recommendations for criminal action or reconciliation. FLE/Expat Media
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