This Practice Note details the circumstances in which a qualified legal representative (QLR) may be appointed in family proceedings, registration and eligibility for appointment as a QLR and the procedure for a QLR to be appointed by the court. The duties and responsibilities of a QLR, when a QLR should attend court, the conduct of cross-examination, potential steps where no QLR is available and arrangements for payment are also set out.

With effect from 21 July 2022, section 65 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (DAA 2021) inserted Part IVB of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984 (MFPA 1984) as to the prohibition of cross-examination in person in family proceedings (as defined). The provisions are subject to the Family Procedure Rules 2010 (FPR 2010), SI 2010/2955, Pt 3A, together with FPR 2010, PD 3AB (Prohibition of cross-examination in person in family proceedings under MFPA 1984, Pt IVB). MFPA 1984, ss 31W–31Y make provision for alternatives to cross-examination in person, including by the court appointing a QLR. Statutory guidance on the role of a QLR appointed by