Chelmsford MP Calls for Specialist Domestic Abuse Court to Help Protect Victims
Chelmsford MP Marie Goldman has called on the Government to establish more specialist domestic abuse courts across England and Wales, suggesting that Chelmsford could be among the next locations to benefit.
The Liberal Democrat MP has warned that delays in the criminal justice system risk discouraging victims from reporting domestic abuse and could leave them exposed to further offending.
Speaking to BBC Essex, Ms Goldman said the backlog of cases was having serious consequences for victims seeking justice.
She has written to the Justice Secretary following discussions with Essex Police, the Crown Prosecution Service and members of the local legal profession.
Concerns Over Chelmsford Court Backlog
In a letter dated 8 October, Ms Goldman said domestic abuse cases accounted for more than 20 per cent of the outstanding caseload at Chelmsford Magistrates' and Crown Courts.
The figure, cited by the MP, highlights her concerns about the pressure facing the local justice system.
Ms Goldman believes establishing a Specialist Domestic Abuse Court (SDAC) in Chelmsford could help cases progress more efficiently while improving the experience of victims and witnesses.
She has asked the Government to clarify its plans for expanding specialist courts and whether Chelmsford could be considered for a future location.
The MP has also requested a meeting with ministers and local representatives to discuss the proposal.
What Is a Specialist Domestic Abuse Court?
Specialist Domestic Abuse Courts were first piloted in England and Wales in 1999.
Rather than requiring entirely new court buildings, they generally operate within existing court facilities, bringing together specially trained professionals and support services to improve the handling of domestic abuse cases.
Cases can be grouped into dedicated court sessions, allowing prosecutors, court staff and victim-support organisations to coordinate their work more effectively.
Arrangements can also include additional safety measures for victims, such as separate entrances or waiting areas to reduce the risk of encountering the person accused of abuse.
Support from specialist domestic abuse advisers can help victims understand the court process and access practical assistance.
The aim is to improve victim safety, reduce unnecessary delays and support the effective administration of justice.
Fears That Victims Are Losing Confidence
Ms Goldman has expressed concern that lengthy court delays can undermine victims' confidence in the justice system.
Speaking to BBC Essex, she warned that delays could make people less likely to report offences and increase the risk of repeated abuse.
She also praised the work of Essex Police but argued that officers needed a court system capable of progressing cases without prolonged delays.
Her proposal follows discussions with police, prosecutors and local legal professionals about the challenges facing domestic abuse cases in Chelmsford.
The MP wants specialist arrangements expanded nationally, with Chelmsford considered as a potential early location.
Government Considering Expansion
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that it is actively considering expanding the use of Specialist Domestic Abuse Courts.
A spokesperson told the BBC that supporting victims attending court remained a priority.
The department also highlighted work to improve the identification of domestic abuse cases within the justice system and additional investment in specialist support services.
In a parliamentary answer published in October, ministers confirmed that expanding specialist courts was being considered as part of wider efforts to improve outcomes for domestic abuse victims.
However, no decision has been announced to establish a Specialist Domestic Abuse Court in Chelmsford, and no opening date or funding allocation has been confirmed.
Essex Police has welcomed measures that could improve support for victims and help secure justice.
What Happens Next?
Ms Goldman is awaiting a formal response from the Ministry of Justice to her request.
Any decision to establish a specialist court in Chelmsford would require further consideration of local demand, court resources and the arrangements needed to provide effective support for victims.
For now, the proposal remains under consideration rather than an approved change to the city's courts.
Domestic Abuse Support in Chelmsford
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone they know, can access confidential advice and support.
Compass — Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline
Telephone: 0330 333 7444
Available Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm, and weekends and bank holidays, 8am–1pm.
Website: https://www.essexcompass.org.uk/
Compass can connect people with specialist domestic abuse services across Essex, including The Next Chapter, which supports people in Chelmsford and surrounding areas.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Telephone: 0808 2000 247 — free, 24 hours a day.
Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Sources: BBC Essex reporting on Marie Goldman's comments; Marie Goldman's letter to the Justice Secretary dated 8 October 2026; Ministry of Justice parliamentary answer on specialist domestic abuse courts; Essex Police and Essex Compass domestic abuse support information.