Guidance

Registration for cross-examination work in family and civil proceedings (Qualified Legal Representative Scheme)

Overview and registration information for qualified legal representatives under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

Applies to England and Wales

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 measures prohibiting alleged perpetrators of domestic abuse and their victims from cross-examining each other in person in specified circumstances have now commenced 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 to cross-examine prohibited parties.

Qualified legal representatives play a significant role in helping to ensure that victims are spared further abuse by perpetrators and all parties can exercise their rights to a fair trial.

Register now

Legal professionals who wish to register for this work should first familiarise themselves with the statutory guidance on the role of the qualified legal representative and then sign up using this form.

Related links

Updates to this page

Published 14 July 2022
Last updated 5 June 2024 + show all updates
  1. Updated in line with legislation change

  2. Old forms replaced with new online form

  3. Welsh version of guidance published.

  4. First published.

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