Through Clare’s Law, Albertans have the right to know and ask about an intimate partner’s past and whether they have a history of violence. People who feel they may be at risk can submit an online application through the Clare’s Law website at no cost.

The government has improved the Clare’s Law process to make it more efficient, easier to navigate and more responsive. This includes adjusting the risk analysis process to decrease turnaround times so applicants are provided information as quickly as possible while also making sure applicants receive comprehensive information in a more accessible format.

As a result, the backlog of risk assessments caused by the large number of applications received has been addressed.

To date, more than 300 information disclosures have been made available to Albertans, helping them make informed choices about their safety and relationships. Many more disclosures are currently being completed by police.

In addition, police forms were consolidated to simplify the process and the application form was amended to make it easier to understand. These improvements were based on feedback from applicants.

“Intimate partner violence takes a huge toll in our communities, and we are taking action to prevent this from happening. Giving people access to the right information could potentially save their lives, and we continue to improve the program to make sure it is responsive to the complex needs of those who may be at risk of intimate partner violence.”

Tyler Shandro, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General

“Alberta has long struggled with a high rate of domestic violence, and Alberta’s government made a platform commitment to take action. The significant uptake of Clare’s Law shows us this tool is a valuable resource for at-risk Albertans and helps them make better decisions about their lives. I urge any Albertan who feels they might be at risk to submit a Clare’s Law application today. You have the right to know and ask about your partner’s past.”

Jason Luan, Minister of Community and Social Services

“When women and children are safe, we all thrive. We must work together as government, as community and as individuals to break the cycle of violence. Clare’s Law is a vital part of the solution. It is an invaluable tool that is saving lives and helping prevent immeasurable pain.”

Whitney Issik, Associate Minister of Status of Women

All Clare’s Law applicants can access supports and services throughout the entire Clare’s Law process. In fact, more than half of all applicants were connected with partner agencies to receive support. These supports include access to services like counselling, safety planning, emergency housing and specialized supports for sexual violence victims.

“Clare’s Law has acted as a safe and accessible entry point for hundreds of Albertans to learn more about domestic abuse, many of whom have never connected with the social service sector previously. Since Clare’s Law launched last year, Sagesse has completed 295 social service referrals. This means nearly 300 Albertans have had the opportunity to access resources and supports to prevent further abuse and live a safer, healthier life.  People may experience fear, domestic abuse and coercive control at any point in a relationship. Deciding what to do when experiencing abuse is hard, but increased information and support helps. We are thankful for programs such as Clare’s Law. By providing resources to Albertans at risk or experiencing domestic abuse, we know we can prevent abuse before it begins.”

Andrea Silverstone, executive director, Sagesse

“The introduction of Clare’s Law in the province of Alberta has added another option for those seeking safety from violence and abuse in their intimate relationships. The operationalization of this innovative response makes positive outcomes more likely when dealing with these dangerous situations and gives more choices to those impacted. Changes like these are not easy to implement, but the process has been collaborative and focused on ensuring the easiest access possible to information and needed resources.”

Kim Ruse, chief executive officer, Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, supports are also available 24-7 by calling the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, which is toll-free from anywhere in Alberta, or going to the family violence resources page on alberta.ca.

Quick facts

  • Clare’s Law came into effect on April 1, 2021.
  • The Disclosure to Protect Against Domestic Violence (Clare’s Law) Act was modelled after the United Kingdom’s Clare’s Law, which was named after a young woman who was killed by an ex-boyfriend with a history of domestic violence.
  • Albertans making a Clare’s Law application have a right to privacy and can trust that their personal information will be safeguarded and only relevant details will be disclosed.
  • Disclosures are only made so a person at risk can make an informed choice about their safety. Any information released cannot be shared or used for other purposes, and must be kept confidential.