Alberta’s ‘Clare’s Law’ helping to deal with domestic violence

Alberta says more than 400 people have applied for disclosure under Clare’s Law since it was introduced, helping those who are at risk of domestic violence.

Clare’s Law, which is based on a UK law, is named after a young woman killed by an ex-boyfriend with a history of violence against women.

The law gives Albertans the right to know their partner’s past and whether or not they have a history of violence.

“Intimate partner violence takes a huge toll in our communities, and we are taking action to prevent this from happening,” Justice Minister Tyler Shandro said. “Giving people access to the right information could potentially save their lives, and we continue to improve the program to make sure it is responsive to the complex needs of those who may be at risk of intimate partner violence.”

The province says it’s improved the Clare’s Law process to decrease turnaround times and get accurate information back to people as quick as possible.

READ MORE: Family violence rising in the province: Legal Aid Alberta

Andrea Silverstone, executive director of Sagesse, says the province has addressed the backlog of applications it’s received, providing more than 300 disclosures since the law came into effect in 2021.

“Clare’s Law has acted as a safe and accessible entry point for hundreds of Albertans to learn more about domestic abuse, many of whom have never connected with the social service sector previously,” Silverstone said. “People may experience fear, domestic abuse and coercive control at any point in a relationship. Deciding what to do when experiencing abuse is hard, but increased information and support helps. We are thankful for programs such as Clare’s Law. By providing resources to Albertans at risk or experiencing domestic abuse, we know we can prevent abuse before it begins.”

Anyone who applies for disclosure under Clare’s Law can access support programs such as counselling, safety planning, emergency housing, and specialized supports for sexual violence victims at any point during the application process. 

People who want to apply to see their partner’s past can do so for free on the province’s website.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, supports are also available 24-7 by calling the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, which is toll-free from anywhere in Alberta, or by going to the province’s website.