Domestic abusers are now no longer able to cross-examine their victims in family and civil courts.
The move follows concerns that perpetrators were using the process as a means of extending their abuse, and victims were being re-traumatised by their experiences in court.
There are now registered solicitors and barristers who will conduct cross-examinations in domestic abuse cases.
The ban will be applied only in cases where there is specified evidence of domestic abuse between those involved, or there is a conviction or protective injunction in place between the parties.