Have you ever been accused of showering someone with too much affection or displaying “controlling behaviour”? At Slater Heelis, we understand that sometimes intentions can be misinterpreted. With the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) updating its legal guidance on manipulative behaviours, knowing where you stand is essential.
Understanding Perceptions
Picture this, you’re in a relationship where you genuinely care for your partner, and you want to show them love and affection. However, your actions may be misconstrued as controlling or manipulative. This behaviour, seen can leave people questioning the true intentions of their romantic interest.
With the CPS urging prosecutors to scrutinise suspected love-bombers’ actions, it’s crucial to understand the difference between showing love and exerting control. The CPS’s updated legal guidance on controlling or coercive behaviour in intimate or family relationships can be found here (LINK).
Awareness and Clarity: Navigating the Complexities of Relationships
As the CPS steps up its efforts to tackle love-bombing and similar controlling behaviours, everyone needs to be aware of what they deem the fine line between love and control.
Understanding these nuances can help you avoid misunderstandings in your relationships.
To maintain a healthy relationship, be mindful that the following actions could be misinterpreted as controlling behaviours:
• Excessive charm or flattery
• Frequent mood swings
• Encouraging isolation from friends and family
• Encouraging constant attention and communication
• Keeping tabs on social media and other online activity
• Influencing where your partner goes and/or who they meet
In the new guidance, the CPS also highlights the importance of considering the pattern of behaviours and their cumulative impact on the victim. As a result, be aware that a single action might not be considered controlling or coercive, but a series of actions could be.
If you’re worried that your actions may be misconstrued, it’s essential to seek guidance and support.
Next Steps & Understanding Your Rights
By examining the evidence around a suspect’s actions, prosecutors aim to build a strong case. However, as criminal defence solicitors, we work tirelessly to ensure that your side of the story is heard, and your rights are protected.
Chief Crown Prosecutor Kate Brown, the national lead for domestic abuse at the CPS, is determined to bring offenders to justice – but it’s equally important that the accused have their chance to present their case. These changes are part of the CPS’s broader efforts to address domestic abuse cases. To do this, they’re currently working with the police to develop a joint justice plan to improve case handling. At Slater Heelis, we’ll ensure that you receive fair treatment throughout the process, particularly in light of the updated legal guidance.
How We Can Help
Our empathetic and experienced legal professionals are prepared to support you through these challenging cases while safeguarding your rights and wellbeing. If you or someone you know needs help and support in this area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for the expert guidance you deserve.
You can reach us at 0330 111 3131 or by filling out our contact form, here.