Domestic Abuse Solicitors
We understand how hard and complex domestic abuse can be. Supporting, safeguarding, and reaching the best legal outcome for those affected is our team’s mission. Having a specialist domestic abuse solicitor to help you take rapid legal action can be invaluable.
Talk to one of our team members on 0330 111 3131
Domestic abuse takes many different forms. It includes not only physical violence, but also emotional, financial, and sexual abuse, along with controlling behaviour.
Furthermore, the relationship someone has with their abuser can be complicated – it can take victims of domestic abuse multiple attempts to leave their partner.
Our solicitors understand this and will always act in a sensitive and understanding way to ensure the best result for you.
As this is a complex area of law, it is vital to have a lawyer who understands the legal landscape and acts with the utmost care.
For a no-obligation consultation, please contact our team of experienced domestic abuse solicitors for support. You can either fill out a contact form or call us on 0330 111 3131.
Why Us?
- We’re recognised by both the Legal500 and Chambers as a leading law firm for 2024.
- Our commitment to customer service sets us apart from other firms – our clients consistently rank our family law team as one of the best, not only in Manchester but across the UK.
- We have vast experience with domestic abuse cases, offering confidential advice and support for clients from all walks of life.
- Many of our lawyers are members of Resolution – an organisation of family law professionals.
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Domestic Abuse
Unfortunately, domestic abuse is common throughout the UK. It can have a devastating impact on victims, with links to anxiety, depression, homelessness, and suicide.
There are many types of abuse, and it can be useful to know what they are so you know what you’re experiencing. Types of abuse can include, but are by no means limited to:
- Physical violence – any act which causes injury to your body.
- Psychological abuse – any act which causes emotional trauma.
- Sexual abuse – any unwanted sexual behaviour.
- Harassment – any unwanted behaviour that you feel unsafe and intimated.
- Control and coercion – a pattern of assault, threats, humiliation, exploitation and intimidation to make you feel dependent on the perpetrator.
- Financial abuse – a perpetrator limits and controls your money or family assets, leaving you with little access to independent income or resources.
- Threats – any form of threatening behaviour, verbal or non-verbal.
If you’re worried about a friend or family member, you may not know if they’re experiencing any of the forms of abuse listed above. However, you can look for other signs that someone may be suffering from an abusive relationship, such as changes in behaviour (e.g. loss of appetite, interest or sleep) and emotional state (e.g. depression, fearfulness, anxiety, etc), along with physical symptoms (e.g. black eyes, bruises, etc).
How We Can Help
Our compassionate and dedicated team provides comprehensive support and legal assistance for those who suffer domestic violence and abuse. We’ll start with a confidential consultation to discuss your situation, provide legal advice, and help you understand your rights and options.
From there, we can move quickly to obtain various protection orders. We will assist you in preparing and filing the necessary paperwork and represent you in court hearings to ensure your safety. These include:
- Non-Molestation Order: A type of injunction designed to provide personal protection from abusive behaviour for you and your children. This order can prevent the abuser from using or threatening violence against you or your child; intimidating, harassing, or pestering you; encouraging others to do so; and coming within a certain distance of your home.
- Occupation Order: This order can exclude or restrict your partner’s occupation of the family home.
- Prohibited Steps Order: This order can prevent the abuser from taking certain actions concerning your child, such as removing the child from your care or taking the child out of the country without consent.
- Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) and Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO): A DVPN is issued by the police and is an immediate emergency measure that can remove the abuser from the home and prevent contact with the victim. Following this, a DVPO can be applied for in court to extend the protection provided by the DVPN for up to 28 days.
Once you have a protection order, you may wish to move ahead with a divorce and secure custody of your children. This is something our team can help you with when the time comes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am in immediate danger?
If you are worried about your safety, call 999 and ask for the police. They can provide immediate assistance and help ensure your safety. If you cannot speak, use the Silent Solution system by dialling 999 and pressing 55 when prompted.
If you would like general advice and support, we suggest
Can I press criminal charges against my partner?
With your safety in mind, the police ultimately decide whether to press charges against your partner. The police can also issue warning notices for harassment and keep a log of all reported incidents to build a case for pressing charges. If you experience any domestic abuse, informing the police and seeking out a support group is a step towards safeguarding the health of yourself or your children.
You can also apply to the family court for orders to stop domestic abuse. You can get an injunction to stop harassment and violent behaviour towards you and your children. You can also get an order preventing your partner from residing in or approaching the house.
Can you divorce a partner on the grounds of domestic abuse?
Since the introduction of no-fault divorces, you no longer need a reason (or “grounds”) to divorce your partner. This is a positive for domestic abuse victims, as it means they don’t need recorded evidence of their partner’s behaviour, which could prolong suffering or resurface past trauma. If you require legal advice, one of our divorce lawyers can offer support and guidance.
Can I stop my partner from having access to the children?
Access to your child can be legally prevented by court order if the safety and welfare of your child are put at risk. If you’re a victim of domestic abuse, then your child could also be at risk.
Witnessing domestic abuse can be emotionally damaging to children, which is specifically mentioned in the legal definition of significant harm to a child.
How can a domestic abuse solicitor help me?
A solicitor can provide legal advice, help you understand your rights, assist in obtaining protective orders, represent you in court, and connect you with additional support services. Our goal is to ensure your safety and help you navigate the legal system.
How long does it take to get a protective order?
The time it takes to get a protective order can vary. In urgent situations, a court can issue an order quickly, often on the same day. For non-emergency cases, it may take longer, depending on court availability and the specifics of your case.
What evidence do I need to support my application for a protective order?
Evidence to support your application can include police reports, medical records, photographs of injuries, witness statements, and any communication from the abuser (text messages, emails, voicemails). Our team will help you gather and present the necessary evidence.
What if my partner/ex-partner violates a protective order?
If your partner or ex-partner violates a protective order, they can be arrested and charged with a criminal offence. You should report any violations to the police immediately.