In the last ten years, most governments in the Pacific region have recognised that violence against women is an endemic problem affecting the majority of women and girls. As a result, 13 states have passed legislation to address this issue. The Pacific Community (SPC) supported several Pacific Island countries through this process, although the specific level of support varied between countries, based on the needs of each government. The assistance provided by SPC ranged from supporting the drafting of the legislation, the consultation process and ultimately passing the legislation through parliament. This reference guide is intended to be used by members of the judiciary in the Pacific region when adjudicating cases of family violence under the newly passed legislation.