KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Legal Aid Council (LAC), an agency of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, is reporting that 90 per cent of legal requests received from members of the public are for a divorce, many of which are linked to experiences of abuse.

The disclosure was made by Executive Director Dian Watson during her opening remarks at the First Responders Training in Understanding Gender-Based Violence, held on January 27 at the Four Seasons Hotel.

The training was hosted through a partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport.

According to Watson, the council’s attorneys regularly provide legal consultations on the mobile justice units that operate islandwide, as well as via virtual consultations.

Executive Director, Legal Aid Council, Mrs Dian Watson (2nd left) poses for a photo with Ms Sharlette Clarke Tomlinson, Legal Officer, Legal Aid Council, (left); Mrs Kristal Tucker Clarke, Director Community Liaison Unit, Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES) (2nd right); and Mrs Joanie Simms, Social Worker, Bureau of Gender Affairs, MCGES (right) at the recent First Responders training on understanding Gender-Based Violence, held at the Four Seasons Hotel.

“Most people who seek consultations from the LAC come to us about divorce. Very often, when they first approach us, they do not immediately disclose that domestic violence is the underlying issue. It is only after trust is established that these experiences are shared,” explained Watson in a news release.

The first responders training session targeted 40 empanelled legal aid attorneys and justice sector personnel. It focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of the legislative framework addressing gender-based violence, the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) response to domestic violence and strategies for preventing and eliminating gender-based violence in Jamaica.

“Gender based violence remains a critical challenge within our society, impacting individuals, families and communities in profound ways. Addressing it requires not only legal knowledge, but also sensitivity, awareness and a coordinated response across the justice system. Today’s forum provides an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of these issues and to strengthen our collective capacity to respond effectively and compassionately,” said Watson in underscoring the need for a coordinated response across the justice system.

The training, organised by the Bureau of Gender Affairs, forms part of its ongoing efforts to enhance first responders’ understanding of gender-based violence and referral pathways, while equipping participants with the skills needed to effectively support victims and survivors.