Legal Aid

In order to access legal aid, you will need to provide evidence that you, or your children, have been victims of domestic abuse or violence, and that you cannot afford to pay legal costs. Evidence can be obtained from the following sources (according to GOV.UK):  

• the courts  
• the police  
• a multi-agency risk assessment conference (MARAC)  
• social care  
• a health professional, such as a GP, nurse midwife, psychologist or health visitor  
• a refuge manager  
• a domestic violence support service  
• your bank e.g. bank loans documents and monthly statement  
• your employer/ education provider or training provider  
• the provider of any benefits that the individual may be receiving, or may have already received.   

Further information can be found on GOV.UK:

Support

Clare's Law

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), also known as Clare’s Law, enables victims or potential victims of domestic abuse to ask the police to disclose information about their partner’s, or ex-partner’s, previous abusive or violent offending.

If police checks show that your partner has a record of violent behaviour, or there is other information to indicate that you may be at risk from your partner, the police will consider sharing this information with you.

You can also apply by asking at any police station, or calling the police on 101.

Sarah's Law

The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme, known as ‘Sarah’s Law’  allows you to ask the police whether someone who has contact with a child or children has a criminal record for child sex offences or poses a risk to children for some other reason.

If you’re worried about someone’s behaviour towards a child, or something you've seen, heard or been told, you can use Sarah's Law to find out if that person is a risk. Anyone who is worried about someone's behaviour towards a child can apply, not just a child's parents. This includes people like a grandparent, neighbours or friends.

You must apply for information about a specific person and a specific child or children they spend time with. You cannot apply for general information about child sex offenders.

You can also apply by asking at any police station, or by calling the police on 101.