A dedicated domestic abuse court has been established in Edinburgh to provide further support for victims of domestic abuse and bring offenders to court quickly.

The pilot court will initially deal with cases from south and east police divisions with the intention of rolling out to other divisions.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said:

“This dedicated court in Edinburgh is a welcome step forward underlining that domestic violence will not be tolerated and the perpetrators will be dealt with swiftly and severely.

“I support tough penalties for any perpetrators of domestic abuse and last year we introduced a new offence of 'engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour’ to give greater protection to victims. We also introduced a ground breaking phone helpline for male victims of domestic abuse."

The pilot is planned to run initially for one year involving offences committed in the south and east police Divisions on or after 9th December 2011. From 7th February 2012 diets are being held fortnightly. The court will have a designated Sheriff, Sheriff Clerk and Procurator Fiscal.