New Domestic Violence order to come into place next year
A new order takes into account the revised Victims’ code, taking account responses to the Government consultation: Improving the Victims’ Code.
The new order, Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 (Victims’ Code of Practice) Order 2020, reflects the revised Victims’ Code, also impacting family law practice.
This focuses on a number of aspects:
1.) Raising awareness and accessibility
2.) Providing clearer information on victims’ rights to access practical and emotional support
3.) Strengthening communication and taking account the victim’s preferences
4.) ncreasing the voice of the victim through providing more flexibility in the Victim Personal Statement process.
The Victims’ Code has a clearly defined set of 12 rights, that are clear and easy to understand. It sets out the services which should be provided to victims of crime by relevant service providers.
Currently, the Code requires that victims are offered the opportunity to make a Victim Personal Statement at the same point of the witness statement being taken. The updated code means increasing flexibility on the timing of the offer and that victims may request a copy of their statement.
You can download a PDF version of the legislation from the GOV.UK website at this link.