COURT OVERSIGHT AND CONVICTION UNDER MANDATORY AND NONMANDATORY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASE FILING POLICIES*

Abstract

Research Summary: This study examines the relative impact of mandatory and nonmandatory DV case filing policies on court oversight and conviction for misdemeanor DV cases. The prevalence and duration of court oversight are greater under a mandatory DV filing policy, whereas conviction is more likely under a nonmandatory DV filing policy. These differences remain even after controlling for legal, case processing, and defendant characteristics. Policy Implications: This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of mandatory and nonmandatory DV case filing policies. Filing policies are linked to the relative priorities prosecutors place on the dual goals of court oversight and conviction.