In the United Kingdom, domestic abuse is a criminal offence. The Family Law Act 1996 protects victims of domestic violence and punishes the oppressors. Abuse typically arises during a family dispute or due to the controlling behaviour of someone in the family.
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse comes in the form of physical, emotional, financial, verbal, or financial abuse. Both men and women can be victims of domestic violence. Children can also be victims directly or indirectly (when they witness the violence).
How to stop or prevent domestic abuse?
If you are a victim of domestic violence and is afraid of a more serious danger that can happen to you and your children, seeking available remedies in the civil and family courts is a great option. They can protect you and your rights without criminal proceedings.
You are eligible for legal aid if you are a victim of any of the following:
- Domestic violence or abuse
- Financial control
The first step is to seek legal aid from a domestic abuse solicitor to help you through the process. Domestic abuse solicitors are legal experts who specialise in family affairs. They help victims of abuse to apply for court orders that will protect you from violence or threats of violence inside or outside the premises of your home.
What counts as evidence of domestic abuse?
Breaking away from someone who is hurting you is a brave step that you need to do first. As you seek legal assistance, it is important to submit pieces of evidence to prove that you or your children are suffering from abuse or likely to suffer more serious harm from an abusive partner or family member.
You can ask evidence from the following:
- The police (previous record of your report)
- Health professionals who examined you (psychologists, doctor, nurse)
- Domestic violence support service
- Social services
- employer
- Provider of benefits you received
- Bank (loan documents and statements, credit card accounts)
What are the legal options for victims of domestic abuse?
Your domestic abuse solicitor will assist you in finding the best remedy to prevent the future occurrence of violence. It includes reporting the situation to the police, leaving your home, or staying in your home without the presence of your abuser. It is paramount to secure your safety and well-being and carefully consider the following:
- Should you continue to live with your abuser?
- What are the crucial steps you need to take to protect yourself against further allegations?
Domestic abuse solicitors can provide legal advice and act on your behalf if you want to:
- Leave permanently separate from your spouse or partner
- Take legal action to keep the abuser away from you
- Keep your right to your family home
- Ensure a safe and appropriate contact arrangement between your spouse and the children
What are the advantages of getting assistance from domestic abuse solicitors?
As a specialist in domestic abuse cases, family solicitors can help you in many ways. They can assist you to escape the unending cycle of abuse and handle related issues that may arise during the legal process.
Their extensive experience and expertise in family law will aid you to move forward with your life. Domestic abuse solicitors understand that it is not simple to break away from a loved one, despite the painful experiences, so they will help deal with the consequences. If you have children, turning a new page makes it more complicated, but your solicitor will be there as you navigate and address family issues.
Your domestic abuse solicitor will work with you as you seek for justice and help you start a life with freedom, even helping you find community support and housing. It is important to have robust support of people who care for you to release the chain of past events and live a better, happier life.
Domestic abuse solicitors work victims to break ties from their abusers without danger and help them access legal support. They are adept in getting emergency protection orders for high-conflict cases. Moreover, they know that a clear strategy is vital to help you deal with past and future concerns. If necessary, your family solicitor will assist you to have a specialist therapeutic session to enable you to cope better during the entire process. And if you do not have the capacity to pay legal representation, your circumstances and means are the defining factors that help you become eligible for legal aid of domestic abuse solicitors.
Yes, there is life after a nightmarish experience in the hands of a domestic abuser. Reach out and find the best domestic abuse solicitor who can help.
