Free legal advice for victims of sexual offences perpetrated by military personnel 

New independent legal advocacy scheme will provide free, independent legal advice to survivors of rape and sexual offences committed by service personnel  

For the first time, victims of sexual assault perpetrated by military personnel – or civilians subject to service discipline – will receive free, independent legal advice, under new plans announced by the Ministry of Defence today. 

Photo by Roberto Catarinicchia / Unsplash

It’s the latest of a range of measures to tackle sexual offences within the Armed Forces, with protective orders to ensure swifter action against perpetrators and pre-charge custody included in the Armed Forces Bill introduced to Parliament last month. 

The 12-month pilot of the Independent Legal Advocacy (ILA) support programme will provide impartial legal support to anyone aged 18 or over, whether they are themselves service personnel or civilians. That means that, from this spring, anyone who reports a sexual offence or rape committed by a service person subject to service law or a civilian subject to service discipline, and that is being investigated by the service justice system, will qualify for support. 

The aim is to provide clear and personalised advice, support individuals to navigate what can often be a complex and emotionally painful process. 

Specialist solicitors from outside the Ministry of Defence will work with victim-survivors to help them understand their rights, navigate complex legal processes and make fully informed decisions, including on such matters as data disclosure and the implications of sharing personal information such as mobile phone and medical records. 

The ILA programme is just part of a comprehensive package of holistic support, complemented by pastoral care from the Victim Witness Care Unit. If the pilot scheme is successful, it will be extended. 

Louise Sandher-Jones MP, Minister for Veterans and People, says: ‘We are determined that those who come forward to report rape or sexual assault get support they need. The new Independent Legal Advocacy service will ensure that, for the first time in Defence, victim-survivors get free, independent legal advice – completely outside the chain of command – to help them understand their rights and navigate what can be a daunting journey to justice. 

‘This initiative is part of our government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and reflects the seriousness with which we are taking this issue.’