Domestic Abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone. Domestic abuse can take on many forms, including physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, coercion and control and financial abuse. Domestic abuse is not acceptable and should never be tolerated. 

Our team of expert family law and domestic abuse solicitors understand the sensitivity and urgency of domestic abuse cases. We can offer you practical support and guidance to ensure that you and your loved ones are protected from further harm. When children are involved, we will work with you to navigate the complex issues that may arise and will tailor our advice to your specific needs and situation. We have many years of experience in assisting victims of domestic abuse, helping them change their circumstances, and ensuring a safer future for them and their loved ones. 

Our expertise

Our specialist domestic abuse solicitors can help you obtain Non-Molestation or Occupation Orders that will enable you to have peace of mind. These Court Orders can prohibit a person’s abuser from harassing, threatening, or using violence against them and/or their children, and regulate who can live in a certain property. They can also exclude a person from coming within a certain distance of a home address, workplace, or school/nursery. 

Legal aid may be available to help you obtain representation in your case. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide guidance on your funding options. 

The first steps towards a safer, happier life

We are committed to treating each client as an individual, and our team of specialist domestic abuse solicitors we will handle your case with the utmost compassion and confidentiality.  

We understand how complex and wide-ranging domestic abuse is and will do our utmost to empower you by providing a clear understanding of your available options. 

Our team of domestic abuse solicitors will be transparent regarding the Court process and do our very best to prepare and support you through any Court hearings. 

Should a more holistic approach be appropriate, our team will signpost you to any other relevant frontline services who can provide support to you and your family.  

Understanding domestic abuse. 

Domestic abuse is a deeply concerning issue that encompasses a range of harmful behaviours occurring within intimate or familial relationships. It is important to comprehend the various forms of abuse to grasp it’s complexity fully. 

1. Physical Abuse: physical abuse involves the use of force or violence, resulting in bodily harm, injury, or impairment. This can include actions such as hitting, punching, kicking, choking, or using weapons to inflict harm. Victims of physical abuse often suffer from bruises, fractures, or internal injuries, which can lead to long-term physical health issues and disabilities. Moreover, children exposed to physical abuse may develop behavioural problems, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

2. Psychological abuse: Psychological abuse is designed to undermine an individual’s self-worth, confidence, and mental well-being. It encompasses verbal insults, threats, intimidation, gaslighting, or constant criticism. The impact of psychological abuse can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts. Victims may feel isolated, powerless, and hesitant to seek help due to fear of retaliation or disbelief. 

3. Emotional abuse: Emotional abuse involves manipulating or controlling a person’s emotions to maintain power and control within the relationship. Tactics may include withholding affection, giving the silent treatment, or using guilt, shame, or humiliation to exert dominance. Emotional abuse erodes trust, intimacy, and emotional stability, leaving victims feeling drained, invalidated, and detached from themselves and others. 

4. Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse encompasses any unwanted sexual activity or behaviour imposed on an individual without their consent. This can include rape, sexual assault, coercion, or forced participation in sexual acts. Sexual abuse violates a person’s autonomy, dignity, and bodily integrity, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and trauma. Victims may experience physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological distress, impacting their relationships and sexual health. 

5. Coercion and control: Coercive control employs tactics to dominate, manipulate, and intimidate a partner, restricting their freedom and autonomy. It involves surveillance, isolation, financial control, and threats of harm to maintain power. Coercive control undermines a person’s sense independence, and safety, trapping them in fear and dependence. Victims often feel isolated, trapped, and unable to escape the abusive relationship. 

6. Financial abuse: Financial abuse involves controlling or exploiting a person’s finances to limit their independence and resources. Tactics may include withholding money, restricting access to bank accounts, stealing assets, or coercing financial dependence. Financial abuse undermines economic security, autonomy, and the ability to leave the abusive relationship. Victims may experience poverty, homelessness, and economic hardship, making it difficult to rebuild their lives independently.

How can we help

If you believe you may be experiencing any form of domestic abuse and need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced family law and domestic abuse solicitors, who will deliver legal advice and guidance in a compassionate and tailored way to suit your needs and circumstances.