Sladič warns that known victims of violence represent only the tip of the iceberg. "Therefore it is of utmost importance to encourage zero tolerance of violence in public. The intervention of the entire social network is indispensable – including victims, friends, relatives, and institutes," he cautions, claiming that there is not enough emphasize on the professional help for perpetrators, which are mainly left without any help.

He also explained the power the Police have in cases of domestic violence. When dealing with a criminal act or misdemeanour, whoever has the status of a policeman can issue a restraining order. This measure can be issued after a criminal act or misdemeanour had been performed, and in cases where the policemen had actually established threat to life, personal safety, or freedom.

When these conditions are fulfilled, the mentioned measure is delivered orally to perpetrator, and its validity if 48 hours. Within six days the perpetrator must be handed also a written decree of the measure, which is simultaneously sent to an investigating judge. Within 24 hours the judge must decide whether to extend the validity of the measure for up to 10 days. Before the expiry of this period the validity of the measure can be extended for further 60 days.

A lot of perpetrators don't comply with a restraining order
If the perpetrator refuses to move, in spite of the sanction, he is evicted from the apartment by Police; and he must hand over the keys. During the validity of the restraining order the perpetrator must not contact the victim by phone, SMS, or e-mail. However, almost 30% of perpetrators violate restraining orders.

Andrej Čebokli
Translated by G. K.