Exploring new territory: Insight and reflections based on the voices of GPs on the challenges in supporting families through family court in the context of domestic violence

This qualitative study was conducted by members of the SAFE team, including two survivors of domestic violence. Fifteen GPs participated in individual in-depth interviews.  The study found that participants had negative perceptions of family court. They supported survivors through instances where the court was used by perpetrators to further their abusive behaviour or where the court acted abusively against survivors. In particular, perpetrators and the family court used survivors’ mental health against them in court proceedings, which resulted in survivors being reluctant to receive treatment for their mental health.