Domestic violence victims will have legal aid limitations eased, say Ministry of Justice
Five-year window on abuse evidence will be ditched and range of documents accepted for testimonies widened
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Legal aid restrictions will be eased for victims of domestic violence under Government reforms.
The Ministry of Justice announced changes to give more support to those taking abusive former partners to court in family proceedings.
A five-year time limit on abuse evidence will be scrapped, while the range of documents accepted as evidence will be widened.
Justice Minister Dominic Raab said: "We have listened to victims' groups and carefully reviewed the criteria for legal aid for victims of domestic abuse in family cases.
"These changes make sure that vulnerable women and children get legal support, so their voice is properly heard in court."
Currently, legal aid is available to people involved in private family disputes if they are victims, or are at risk of becoming victims of domestic violence or child abuse.
Applicants must provide objective evidence of abuse within the last five years to qualify.
Documentation that can be accepted as evidence of abuse must come from social services, law enforcement and medical professionals.
The time limit will be removed under changes coming into force from January, while statements from domestic violence support organisations and housing support officers will become eligible to be used as evidence in applications.
The Legal Aid Agency has existing powers to withdraw funding in the event that evidence of domestic violence is proven to be false.
Press Association
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments