The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 makes substantial amendments to civil and criminal law. It promises to tackle domestic violence and increase support for victims of crime. This book provides practical guidance on the impact of these changes, clearly outlining how the new rules interact with the existing provisions. Written by a solicitor for busy practitioners, the book will prove invaluable for both family and criminal lawyers: Family lawyers need to know how the Act will improve protection for victims of domestic violence by making breach of a non-molestation order a criminal offence, extending the availability of restraining orders under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and making common assault an arrestable offence. Criminal lawyers cannot ignore the amendments to the criminal law including: the creation of a new offence of causing or allowing the death of a child; the trial of sample counts on indictment without a jury; new powers of the court regarding insanity and unfitness to plead and the recovery of compensation from offenders. The book reproduces relevant sections and schedules of the Act in full. Each chapter begins with a concise summary which should allow the busy practitioner to pick up the salient points with ease. Key features -relevant sections and schedules of the Act reproduced in full -detailed guidance on the practical impact of the changes to criminal and civil law -explanation of how the new rules interact with the existing provisions relating to domestic violence -each chapter commences with a concise summary highlighting the main points covered