Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill

​The Bar Council submitted a response to the Northern Ireland Assembly Justice Committee’s call for written evidence on the Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill in June 2020. This Bill provides for a new offence of domestic abuse focusing on non-physical abusive behaviour including coercive control and the prevention of cross-examination of witnesses by persons accused of domestic abuse in criminal and family proceedings.

The submission reflects the views of the Criminal Bar Association and Family Bar Association which serve to ensure an independent and quality source of specialist legal advocacy in both our criminal and family courts.

Click to read the full response.