Abstract:
This thesis describes the nationwide epidemic of domestic violence in the United States.
The role that a judge takes in Protection from Abuse hearings and how the judge’s
demeanor and authority play a vital role in the courtroom is examined as a contributing
factor to the social issue of domestic violence. Research was conducted to explore the
dynamic between the judge and the victim by using Federal and state legislation, as well
as courtroom observations and extensive literature. In the process of researching and
writing this thesis, the author conducted courtroom observations to analyze the behavior
of two judges in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This thesis is designed for the use
of academics and domestic violence agencies to continue research on the development of
legislation, regulations, and judge training programs.
