The number of domestic violence cases sent forward for trial nearly doubled last year.
A leading barrister says COVID-19 lockdowns are one of the reasons for the increase.
These new figures, released under the Freedom of Information Act, show a sharp rise in domestic violence cases in 2020.
In 2019, the DPP received 465 files from the gardai relating to domestic violence.
They decided to bring prosecutions in 249 cases.
These figures rose dramatically in 2020, when the DPP got 872 files from gardaí - with 495 sent forward for trial.
Barrister Morgan Shelley believes there are a number of factors for the increase.
He said: "Much of the increase is likely down to improvements in how gardaí deal with domestic violence cases - we're seeing more specialist gardaí with advanced training, and better protocols to ensure cases are followed up by specialist members.
"But we can't ignore the fact that this increase is happening at a time when families are in lockdown together.
"Based on what the DPP has said in the past, it is likely some of the increase is down to the lockdown measures."
He added that domestic violence can take the form of assaults, and may also include offences such as breaking barring orders or safety orders.
Of the 495 cases sent forward for trial last year, 210 were in Dublin, while 35 were in Cork, 29 were in Donegal and 20 were in Wexford.
Gardaí have previously reminded the public that 5km restrictions do not apply to anyone fleeing domestic abuse.
Anyone affected by issues raised in this article can contact the Women's Aid 24-hour National Freephone Helpline on 1800-341-900 or go to www.womensaid.ie
You can also contact the National Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour Helpline on 1800 77 8888.
