The Psychological Impact of Prolonged Legal Delays on Female Victims of Domestic Violence in Lahore, Pakistan

Domestic violence is a serious crime and a pressing issue affecting communities worldwide. In Pakistan, there is a lack of efficiency in the judicial system, which is worsening the situation. This paper examines the emotional impact on female victims of domestic violence in Lahore because of the time lag in legal matters, especially the time lag in filing the Report in accordance with Section 173 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). This study analyses the effects of waiting too long to experience the justice system on the mood of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness in the victims using the qualitative phenomenological approach. Interviews with women who were already involved in unresolved cases of domestic violence were identified as semi-structured, and it was found that delay not only extends the traumatic emotional experience but also adds to the feeling of powerlessness and despair. The participants have indicated that they employ different coping strategies, which include family support and maladaptive behaviours such as substance abuse. The paper highlights the importance of having trauma-informed support systems in the court and recommends a more timely completion of domestic violence issues. The findings indicate that the recommendations to change the legal framework in Pakistan can help meet the psychological needs of domestic violence victims and provide a victim-centered approach to justice.