Saskatchewan's Initiative to Integrate Expert Witnesses in IPV Cases

RESOLVing Violence

This episode discusses themes related to intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence, including detailed conversations about the legal processes and expert testimony in IPV court cases. Listener discretion is advised, as these topics can be triggering or distressing for some individuals.

In this insightful episode of Resolving Violence, we welcome back Crystal Giesbrecht, the director of research at the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PABSS), to dive deeper into her pioneering work on the expert witness project for intimate partner violence (IPV) cases in Saskatchewan. Crystal elaborates on the significance of expert witnesses in the courts and shares how the project, rooted in previous efforts to reduce justice barriers for survivors, has led to a comprehensive 15-hour training program for family law professionals. Funded by the Shockproofing Communities Fund for Women and Gender Equality Canada, this initiative aims to compile a roster of IPV expert witnesses to present evidence-based information essential for court decisions impacting the safety of survivors and their children.

Crystal discusses the skills required for professionals serving as expert witnesses, emphasizing the importance of articulating expertise and presenting evidence that is beneficial to both family and criminal courts. Highlighting the Saskatchewan professionals’ and PABSS member agencies’ expertise, she underscores the impact of frontline experience combined with current research evidence. Shaylyn White, another guest on the podcast, adds to the conversation by acknowledging the challenges experts face and the importance of leveraging a diverse array of professionals to provide specialized knowledge relevant to IPV cases.

Towards the end of the episode, Crystal emphasizes the need for increasing awareness about the availability and benefits of expert testimony in IPV cases. She also shares details about her ongoing efforts, including a recently conducted training pilot in September 2023 and plans for periodic future sessions to build a robust community of practice. Additionally, Crystal talks about her research documenting IPV survivors' experiences with the legal system in Saskatchewan, aiming to inform policy and improve practices for supporting victims. Legal professionals are encouraged to recognize the value of frontline expertise and consider collaboration with PATHS to enhance their approach in IPV-related court cases.

About Our Guest:
Crystal Giesbrecht is the Director of Research at the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PABSS) and a distinguished Ph.D. candidate specializing in intimate partner violence (IPV). Crystal brings a wealth of expertise to the Resolving Violence podcast, with a strong focus on transforming legal responses to gender-based violence through evidence-based research. She has been pivotal in spearheading an expert witness project aimed at reducing barriers to justice for IPV survivors, including the development of a comprehensive 15-hour training program for family law professionals. Her extensive frontline experience and in-depth research contribute valuable insights designed to improve the safety and well-being of survivors and their children within the judicial system. Crystal is also actively involved in documenting survivor experiences in Saskatchewan to drive meaningful policy change and enhance the support framework for victims of IPV.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/