GovWire

New Domestic Abuse Act 2021 measures will prohibit alleged perpetrators of domestic abuse and their victims from cross-examining each other, with the court appointing legal practitioners to cross-examine prohibited parties.

Under the provisions, barristers, solicitors and CILEX practitioners with cross-examination and vulnerable witness training, and advocacy training can be appointed directly by the court to cross-examine prohibited parties, helping to ensure that victims are spared further abuse by perpetrators.

Qualified legal professionals who are registered will play a significant role and their cross-examination skills will be crucial by helping victims in court to confidently engage with the justice process and exercise their rights to a fair trial.

Legal professionals who wish to register should complete the registration form and excel sheet and email it to QLRCross-Exam@justice.gov.uk

Any questions about registration can also be sent to the email address.

Related link

Qualified legal representative appointed by the Court: Statutory guidance