Tougher laws on Domestic Violence

On 8th March 2014, International Women’s Day, Claire’s Law was rolled out across England and Wales. The scheme, named after Claire Wood who was murdered by a former partner 5 years ago, enables the Police to disclose details of abusive partners’ pasts in relation to domestic violence and other violent acts. It is hoped that this will help to prevent domestic violence against new partners and Claire’s Law reflects an important step forward in this area of the law.

The scheme has been piloted for 14 months and has on the whole been successful, meaning that the scheme is now being rolled out in all Police areas in England and Wales. Family Law Week also reports that a new power enabling Police and Magistrates’ Courts to protect victims of domestic violence immediately after an attack can now be implemented. The Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) can impose bail conditions where there is insufficient evidence to press charges and can ensure that there is no contact with the victim for up to 28 days.

Further to the protection under criminal law, the Family Law Act 1996 allows victims of domestic violence to apply for a Non Molestation Order, providing protection to those who have suffered from threatening behaviour. Victims may also apply for an Occupation Order under the same act to prevent the abuser from entering a news or to impose other conditions for protection. Here at Chadwick Lawrence we have one of the most experienced Family Law Teams in the region, headed by Partner Catherine Dews. If you require advice about any Family Law matters including matters in relation to domestic violence, please contact us on 0800 387 747.