Middle-east Arab News Opinion | Asharq Al-awsat

Saudi Arabia’s Domestic Violence Courts | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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We have received the good news that King Abdullah, the custodian of the two holy mosques, has instructed the Ministry of Justice to establish courts to deal with cases of domestic violence. It is known that the new judicial system in Saudi Arabia that was issued following a royal decree last year and that is on the verge of completion includes the formation of specialized courts. One of these courts or specializations is the civil status department in each public court. This department specializes in issues related to disputes that may arise between spouses concerning alimony, child custody, wedlock, inheritance, and so on.

The establishment of a specialized court as requested by the custodian of the two holy mosques will be very useful. The more a court is specialized the more efficient it will be. The judges that will choose to preside over such courts will have to be highly qualified to rule correctly in accordance with the interests of the people. Those who are chosen will have specific qualifications, knowledge about such cases, and the ability to solve problems through their knowledge. The judge should receive in-depth training before he begins his judicial role in these specialized courts. Excellent training, the selection of a suitable person for the job, and the ability of the chosen person to understand and absorb the provisions of Sharia law and the regulations and instructions related to his work, will make it easy for him to fulfill his role efficiently. We also have to refer to the importance of having psychologists, sociologists and other consultants that may be needed in specific cases to assist the Sharia judge in making sound rulings.

We pray to God to grant Muslims success in this life and in the afterlife. We pray to God to grant success, inspiration, and guidance to those in charge of the Muslims and the interests of the people. We pray to God that He helps King Abdullah, the custodian of the two holy mosques and guides him to the path of righteousness and wisdom.