New legislation outlaws domestic abuse

China's first law targeting violence within the home has now come into force, outlining a new approach to spousal and partner abuse and challenging traditional notions about family values. Luo Wangshu reports.

As China's first national law against domestic violence comes into force, legal professionals across the country are predicting a sharp decline in the number of cases of spousal and partner abuse.

"Domestic violence won't stop until offenders see the actual punishments when the law comes into force (on Tuesday)," said Wang Xinliang, a lawyer with the Shandong Xinliang Law Firm, who added that the message will really be driven home when restraining orders and warnings are issued.