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Purpose: Domestic Violence Protective Orders (DVPOs) can prevent intimate partner homicide and decrease intimate partner violence (IPV) re-victimization; however, the filing process can be burdensome. Electronic filing (e-filing) of DVPOs allows IPV survivors to file from a secure remote location and is facilitated by a DV advocate. Previous research indicates that e-filing is associated with decreased DVPO involuntary dismissals and reduced time-to-service and time-to DVPO disposition. We sought to describe e-filing implementation and to identify DVPO stakeholders’ perceptions of the benefits of and barriers to e-filing.
Design: We conducted interviews with clerks (n=11), advocates (n=15), sheriffs (n=10), and judges (n=10) in e-filing counties in North Carolina and conducted a thematic content analysis of the interview data.
Results: There was consensus that the simplicity and speed of e-filing has a positive impact for all DVPO stakeholder groups and facilitates Survivors’ connection to additional services. However, e-filing has also increased the demand for and process of DVPO filing, which may overwhelm systems and lead to barriers related to training and staff turnover. Implementation appeared to vary across counties.
Conclusion: DVPO e-filing is a promising intervention that may facilitate access to DVPOs. Complete implementation requires adequate staffing and resources.