We work to secure a fair hearing for the victims of domestic abuse
Our unique approach
Fair Hearing exists to make the family justice system safer, fairer and more accountable for victims and children affected by domestic abuse (DA). We work across the judiciary, policing, mediation, and policy landscapes to embed trauma-informed, victim-led practice at the heart of decision-making.
We have changed the law: supported Jess Asato MP in drafting a successful amendment to the Victims and Courts Bill, restricting parental responsibility for those convicted of offences against any child.
Fair Hearing’s Role in Driving Legislative Reform
Serious sex offenders will no longer have automatic parental responsibility for their children thanks to an amendment to the Victims and Courts Bill.
Those convicted of serious child sexual offences can be stripped of the parental responsibility for their own children when they offend against any child.
Fair Hearing has supported Jess Asato MP by drafting the amendment she introduced in in Parliament.
“This move will protect thousands of children” Asato said, “and I want to pay tribute to Fair Hearing for their steadfast campaigning on this issue.”
Impact
We have changed how judges, mediators and police officers understand DA, embedding relational, trauma-informed practice across frontline professionals.
Outcomes To Date
- Edited Equal Treatment Bench Book to improve advice on DA
- Successfully called for reintroduction of 1994 protocol to link criminal and family court cases impacting same family so that there can be joint directions and better planning to protect victims
Latest News
When Article 8 ECHR Fails to Protect Mothers: Family Courts in Scotland
