If you’re navigating a relationship and wondering about your partner’s past, or if you’ve experienced SA recently or any time in the past and want to know your options, you’re not alone. In Alberta, Clare’s Law and the Edmonton Police Service’s SA reporting system are here to help you make informed choices, protect your safety and the safety of others. Here’s how they work and how they can support you.
What Is Clare’s Law?
Clare’s Law, officially known as the Disclosure to Protect Against Domestic Violence Act, allows individuals to request information about their current, former or potential intimate partner’s history of domestic violence. This includes records of:
- Domestic violence
- Stalking or harassment
- Breaches of no-contact orders
- S*xual violence
- Other related acts
The law is named after Clare Wood, a woman in the UK who was k*lled by an ex-partner with a history of violence against women that she was unaware of. Her tragic death led to the creation of this law, aiming to prevent similar situations.
How to Apply for Clare’s Law in Alberta
There are two ways to request information under Clare’s Law:
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Right to Ask: You can apply online if you believe you’re at risk.
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Right to Know: Police can initiate a disclosure if they believe you may be at risk / have the right to know certain information on the person you are inquiring about
To apply, visit the official Clare’s Law page: Apply for Clare’s Law
After applying, you’ll have a disclosure converstaion with police, where they’ll share relevant information verbally. This information is not provided in writing. The person whose history is being checked will not be informed about your application.
Reporting SA in Edmonton – YOU choose if it goes into the investigation stage
Online Reporting: If you’re 16 or older and the assault occurred more than seven days ago, you can report online here: edmontonpolice.ca
When reporting, you can choose to:
- Report Only: Your information is recorded, and you’ll receive a file number by email. No one will contact you unless you choose to proceed.
- Report and Request an Investigation: Police will follow up and may begin a formal investigation.
Even if you don’t pursue charges, your report stays on file. If multiple reports exist about the same individual, that pattern may later be disclosed under Clare’s Law to help protect others.
Good to Know: There is No Time Limit for Reporting
It’s important to note that there is no time limit for reporting a SA or laying charges. You can report an assault today that occurred many years ago. However, the sooner you report, the easier it is for police to collect evidence and proceed with an investigation.
For more information on both of these programs / community supports, see the Edmonton City Police website – or visit / call your local police station.