New protection measures give victims access to free expert advice and representation in court
Free legal advice for victims of domestic abuse
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With the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, the government committed to introducing new Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders for domestic abuse victims.
Upon implementation, police will be able to issue Protection Notices to provide immediate protection for victims (for example, requiring the perpetrator to leave the victim’s home). To provide long-term protection, a court may order the perpetrator to undergo behaviour change programmes or wear an electronic tag. Victims protected by these will now have access to free expert legal advice and representation in court.
The government will also invest an extra £10 million a year in housing legal aid, so that thousands more people can access legal advice if they risk eviction.
Read more: Free legal advice expanded to help thousands more people at risk (GOV.UK)
