ASSOCIATION OF QUALIFIED LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES
FAMILY LAW TRAINING AND ACCREDITATION PROGRAMME
Purpose
To create a national training and accreditation framework ensuring that Qualified Legal Representatives (QLRs) are properly trained, ethically guided, and equipped to manage cases involving vulnerable witnesses and self-represented parties in all types of family proceedings.
- Programme Structure
The programme is divided into two stages:
– Stage A: Foundation Level – mandatory for all QLRs before appointment.
– Stage B: Specialist Tracks – advanced modules for accreditation in specific types of proceedings.
- Foundation Level (Mandatory Modules)
A1. Role and Boundaries of the QLR
Statutory framework (FPR Pt 3A, PD3AA, Domestic Abuse Act 2021); scope of the QLR’s role; limits of representation; withdrawal and discharge procedures.
Assessment includes:
- Multiple-choice knowledge test
- Simulated ground rules hearing and cross-examination exercise
- Reflective practice journal
A2. The Family Court System
Structure, hierarchy, and jurisdiction of the Family Court; procedural differences between public, private, financial, and protective proceedings.
Assessment includes:
- Multiple-choice knowledge test
- Simulated ground rules hearing and cross-examination exercise
- Reflective practice journal
A3. Advocacy and Cross-Examination
Core advocacy techniques; the 20 principles of questioning vulnerable witnesses; adapting advocacy for trauma and cognitive limitations.
Assessment includes:
- Multiple-choice knowledge test
- Simulated ground rules hearing and cross-examination exercise
- Reflective practice journal
A4. Vulnerability and Ground Rules Hearings
Identifying vulnerability (adults, children, intervenors); role of intermediaries and special measures; preparation for ground rules hearings; setting realistic time estimates.
Assessment includes:
- Multiple-choice knowledge test
- Simulated ground rules hearing and cross-examination exercise
- Reflective practice journal
A5. Managing Difficult or Distressed QLR-Assisted Persons
Communication boundaries; dealing with hostility, non-compliance, or emotional distress; professional resilience and safeguarding.
Assessment includes:
- Multiple-choice knowledge test
- Simulated ground rules hearing and cross-examination exercise
- Reflective practice journal
- Specialist Accreditation Tracks
Each track deepens competency and leads to specialist accreditation. Completion of at least one track is required for full AQLR accreditation.
B4. Family Law Act 1996 (Protective Orders & Domestic Violence)
Focus: Domestic violence, protective orders, and the intersection of civil and criminal processes. This module is both a standalone specialism and a cross-cutting competency underpinning all other tracks.
Core Topics include:
- Understanding Domestic Violence and Abuse – definitions under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, typologies, and impact on victims and children.
- Protective Proceedings – non-molestation and occupation orders, evidential thresholds, and enforcement.
- The QLR’s Role – representing alleged perpetrators or survivors, trauma-informed questioning, safeguarding, and managing fairness.
- Ground Rules and Special Measures – ensuring risk assessment and adjustments for fair participation.
- Termination or Transfer of Appointment – recognising when continued representation becomes unsafe or conflicted.
- Accreditation Pathway
Stage 1: Complete Foundation Modules A1–A5 and pass all assessments.
Stage 2: Complete one Specialist Track (B1–B4).
Stage 3: Submit case portfolio and reflective log with oral assessment.
Stage 4: Maintain annual CPD (minimum 6 hours) and peer review for renewal.
