By Canadian Press

Alberta brings in Clare’s Law allowing access to intimate partner’s criminal records

Mar 30, 2021 | 2:08 PM

EDMONTON – Alberta is the second province to bring in a law that could help people at risk of domestic violence learn about their intimate partner’s criminal record.

The legislation, which is informally known as Clare’s Law, comes into effect Thursday.

A similar law came into force last June in Saskatchewan.

It allows people who feel they may be at risk to apply for information related to a current or former partner’s potential risk for domestic violence.

“Domestic violence is devastating for families and communities, which is why we are working to protect vulnerable people and give them options before violence takes place,” says Rajan Sawhney, minister of community and social services. “Clare’s Law will help empower those at risk so they can protect themselves from harm.”

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Police can also choose to warn potential victims if they feel they are in danger.

The legislation was initiated in the United Kingdom and is named after Clare Wood, a woman who was murdered in 2009 by a partner she didn’t know had a violent criminal history.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 30, 2021.

The Canadian Press