Disclosure of Information between Family and Criminal Agencies and Jurisdictions (2024 Protocol): what has changed and what has stayed the same

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The ‘Disclosure of Information between Family and Criminal Agencies and Jurisdictions: 2024 Protocol’ introduces a number of changes for family law practitioners. Replacing the previous 2013 guidance this new Protocol effective from 1 March 2024 standardises and simplifies the process of obtaining police disclosure. Key differences in the new Protocol and guidance include:

1. Annexed Forms: Mandatory use of standard forms to request material from the police with court orders generally not being required;

2. Mandatory Compliance: The Protocol requires disclosure to be provided in set timescales with the maximum being 20 business days;

3. Guidance for public and private law proceedings: The Protocol provides useful guidance for practitioners including the need for specific detailed and proportionate requests;

4. Inter-agency cooperation: The Protocol places mirror duties of disclosure upon the police and upon local authorities.

The full article has published in the August issue of Family Law.  Find out more or request a free 1-week trial of Family Law journal. Please quote: 100482