The Cook Islands government says family meetings should play a major role in requirements put in place by the proposed Family Law Bill.
Cook Islands Parliament Photo: Supplied
The secretary of the Minister of Internal Affairs, Bredina Drollet, says in serious cases of abuse, families should come together to discuss what is best for the child.
The Bill, if passed by Parliament, will bring in major changes to the way child protection and domestic violence issues are dealt with.
One important proposed change is the introduction of a new process allowing families greater influence in managing the best interests of the child.
It has been proposed that a Uipa'anga Kopu Tangata be used - a formal meeting of relevant members of the family, as a way of avoiding going to court.
The bill is with a parliamentary select committee and members of the public will soon be able to make public submissions.