Petition launched calling for 'Jade's Law' to be introduced in Northern Ireland

The ‘Petition for the Incorporation of a Jade’s Law equivalent into the Criminal Justice (Sentencing etc.) Bill’ calls upon the Northern Ireland Assembly ‘to take immediate steps to incorporate the principles of Jade’s Law into the Criminal Justice (Sentencing etc.) Bill, ensuring that families in Northern Ireland receive the same protections now afforded to those in England and Wales under the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024.’

It adds: “Jade’s Law was created to end the secondary victimisation of families following domestic homicide. It ensures that parental responsibility is automatically suspended for any parent convicted of murdering or committing voluntary manslaughter against the person with whom they shared that responsibility, and that the burden of proof rests with the convicted individual to justify any continued involvement in the child’s life.

“Because family law is devolved, Northern Ireland remains outside the scope of these protections. This has left families, already devastated by loss, forced to consult the person responsible for their loved one’s death on decisions affecting surviving children. This is not only unjust; it is inhumane."

The petition states that around 30 women have been killed by an ex-partner or husband, many of whom had children, within the area of Northern Ireland, which has brought this disparity into sharp focus.

"Their families, and others like them, deserve the same dignity and protection as families elsewhere in the United Kingdom.

“We therefore petition the Assembly to act swiftly and compassionately to close this legislative gap. The inclusion of a Jade’s Law equivalent within the Criminal Justice (Sentencing etc.) Bill would demonstrate cross‑party unity and reaffirm Northern Ireland’s commitment to justice, child welfare, and victims’ rights.”

This petition was formally launched in Derry on April 16.

You can see and sign the petition here.