Complete the form below to ask us a question or make an enquiry. We’ll get back to you via phone or email as soon as possible.

Insights

Domestic Violence – General

Posted on 24th January 2018 in Family Law

Posted by

Aimee Aspinall

Senior Associate & Solicitor
Domestic Violence – General

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, often known as Clare’s Law, was rolled out across England and Wales on 8th March 2014. It is designed to provide victims with information that may protect them from an abusive situation before it ends in tragedy. The scheme allows the police to disclose information about a partner’s previous history of domestic violence or violent acts.

The scheme has two entry routes that may lead to a disclosure being made.

The right to ask:

  • This enables someone to ask the police about a partner’s previous history of domestic violence or violent acts.
  • If records show an individual may be at risk of domestic violence or domestic abuse from a partner, the police will consider disclosing the information.
  • A disclosure can be made if it is legal, proportionate, and necessary.

The right to know:

  • This route is triggered when the police receive indirect information or intelligence about the safety of an individual and where, after checks are made, the police judge that a disclosure should be made to safeguard the individual.
  • It enables an agency to apply for disclosure if it believes an individual is at risk of domestic violence from their partner.

The police can release information if it is lawful, necessary, and proportionate.

Find out more

If you need any help regarding this matter, then please do not hesitate to contact our experienced team of family law solicitors.

Contact our expert team

Company & Industry

Related Insights

Insights

Open Reporting in Family Courts – An Update

Posted on 11th February 2025 in Family Law

From Monday 27th January 2025 the Family Courts opened their reporting provisions across England and Wales. These changes will enable accredited journalists and legal bloggers to apply for a transparency order and, if granted, they can attend hearings and report on them whilst also protecting the anonymity of the families involved.

Posted by

Bea Taylor

Solicitor
Insights

What Happens if My Ex and I Cannot Agree Which School Our Child Should Go?

Posted on 03rd February 2025 in Family Law

One parent should not unilaterally change a child’s school without first seeking the consent of the other parent, who holds parental responsibility. However, the time may have come to decide which primary school or secondary school your child should attend, and this can include both state or public schools.

Posted by

Sophie Charlton-Rigg

Paralegal