The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has put out a call for lawyers wishing to apply to become ‘qualified legal representatives’ under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021
The Act barred alleged perpetrators of domestic abuse and their victims from cross-examining each other in person. The bar applies in specified circumstances in family and civil proceedings. Under the provisions, barristers, solicitors and CILEX practitioners with cross-examination experience and vulnerable witness and advocacy training can be appointed directly by the court as ‘qualified legal representatives’ to cross-examine prohibited parties, helping to ensure that victims are spared further abuse by perpetrators.
The application form and statutory guidance can be accessed here.
