FAMILY AND MATRIMONIAL LAW - DOMESTIC ABUSE
Domestic Abuse
Have you been the victim of domestic abuse?
If you have been subjected to:
- physical abuse - sworn at, shouted at, persistently undermined, bullied, humiliated, threatened or insulted
- subject to financial or material abuse
- improper use of your property
- withholding money or other belongings
- sexually abused, sexual activity where you have been forced or to which you do not consent
...you have been subjected to domestic abuse .
What can I do
- Call the Police by dialling 999. The police have specialist units for people experiencing domestic abuse.
- Alternatively you can go and see a solicitor.
- Break your isolation so that you are less dependent on your partner.
- Contact your nearest refuge project (details from Women's Aid National Help line), the Police (local housing department can give you details). They can give you support and practical information eg income support benefits, housing rights, schooling as well as providing emergency accommodation. You can still get help from a refuge even if you do not want to leave home.
- Refuges can often provide/advise on link up services.
- Do not keep the assault a secret.
- Get help from your GP or casualty department. They will record your injuries and may provide evidence if you decide to prosecute your abuser.
How can the law help
The Police can prosecute your partner, who can be made the subject of bail conditions.
How can we help you?
A solicitor can apply to the Court for the following Orders:
- A non-molestation Order - an order to stop a person threatening or being violent to you or to your children.
- Occupation Order - an order that the violent person leave the home.
- A power of arrest can be attached to these two orders.
- In an emergency, you can go to Court in secret without your partner knowing. He will then be served with an order which may have a power of arrest attached.
The Protection from Harassment Act - if you are experiencing harassment, you can make a claim in the County Court either for damages, injunction or both. If there is a breach, the maximum penalty is five years imprisonment. The police can also take proceedings in the criminal court.
If I am a male who is being abused, can I get help
Yes. Research has shown that there is an increasing number of male victims who are needing and asking for help.
Free Enquiry
If you would like to speak to one of our specialist family team members please call us on 01243 786 668 or complete our online enquiry form.