Valerie’s Law would strip automatic child guardianship rights from those convicted of killing the other parent of their child. Photograph: Getty Images/iStockphotoThe Department of Justice is to press ahead with plans to strip guardianship rights from killers despite the State’s child and family agency raising concerns that the legislation is unconstitutional. The department said it is “satisfied” that a Bill known as Valerie’s Law “is constitutional in all respects”. Valerie’s Law, if enacted, would strip automatic child guardianship rights from those convicted of killing their partner or the other parent of their child. He continued to have guardianship rights over their three boys despite his murder conviction.

Source: The Irish Times April 03, 2026 09:32 UTC