Domestic Violence & Abuse Solicitors
Legal support with Domestic Violence & Abuse.
Domestic Violence & Abuse can happen to anyone. It can happen to women. It can happen to men. In any type of relationship. In any walk of life. If you are experiencing violence, abuse, or threats of violence, you are not alone. But, it is never acceptable. You do not have to put up with it. Whatever your circumstance, there is a way out. Our Domestic Violence Solicitor is here to support you.
Ending a relationship at any time is difficult. Ending a relationship where a partner controls and scares you can be even harder. It is important to plan your exit safely. Whether you need emotional, practical, legal or financial support there is help available. Contact us to help you consider your options. Contact us to help you start to plan your exit. Let us support you in bringing your Domestic Violence & Abuse to an end.
Are you experiencing Domestic Violence? Do you need to put in place arrangements to keep you and your children safe?
How can the law help those experiencing Domestic Violence & Abuse?
Many acts of Domestic Violence & Abuse are criminal offences. All acts of violence or abuse should be reported to the Police. If you are ever in an emergency, you should call 999. The Police should be your first port of call.
The Police have a duty to intervene where there are concerns that you or your children may be harmed. They should investigate any concerns. Police stations often have specially trained officers and Specialist Domestic Violence Units. The Police can help you get to a safe place. They should also take steps to try to ensure the perpetrator is prevented from contacting you. They should also take steps to try to ensure the perpetrator does not return to your address.
Thereafter, the Police may be able to put in place a Domestic Violence Protection Notice or Restraining Order. Where this is not possible, Injunctions may be available via the Family Court.
What is a Family Law Injunction?
There are two types of Family Law injunctions:
- a Non-Molestation Order.
- an Occupation Order.
What is a Non-Molestation Order?
A Non-Molestation Order prevents the other person from using or threatening violence and intimidation against you or your children. It also prevents them from pestering or harassing you or your children.
Who can apply for a Non-Molestation Order?
Anyone who is an ‘associated person’ can apply. This includes spouses, civil partners, cohabitants, and close relatives.
If you are not an associated person, similar protection may be available under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
Whatever your circumstance, we will be able to advise you of the applications available to you.
What is an Occupation Order?
An Occupation Order can exclude the other person from entering or returning to your home. In some cases, this can extend to the surrounding area. It can also address the living arrangements in your home.
Who can apply for an Occupation Order?
A spouse, cohabitant, or an associated person in specified circumstances.
How quickly can an application for an Injunction be made?
In urgent cases, you may be able to apply on the same day or at least the next day.
Will my ex-partner be told about my application?
This will depend on your circumstances. It may be possible to apply for an Order on an ex-parte basis. This means that the Judge will hear your application without your ex-partner being told in the first instance. If your application is successful, a temporary Order will be made. A return hearing date will then be set. This return date is needed to allow your ex-partner to respond to your application. The Judge will also consider if the temporary Order should continue. This return date is usually a few weeks later. An ex-parte application is usually only available in urgent cases.
How long will an injunction last?
The Order typically lasts for 6 or 12 months. They can last indefinitely. However, it is unusual for an Order to last more than 12 months. If necessary, an application can be made to extend the timeframe if necessary. An application for an extension must be made before the Order ends.
If you want to know if you can apply for protection against Domestic Violence & Abuse, please contact us.
Accused of Domestic Violence & Abuse against a partner?
If you have been accused of Domestic Violence or Abuse, then we can provide you with the necessary advice and support. This can include arranging legal representation where needed.
If you have been served with Court papers for a Family Court hearing, it is important that you obtain legal advice as soon as possible. It is also important that you attend the hearing. If you do not, an Order may be made in your absence.
Please note that we cannot advise on criminal law matters. If you have been arrested or have been contacted by the Police, you will need advice from a Specialist Criminal Lawyer. We recommend you contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau or visit the Law Society website.
Are you facing allegations of Domestic Violence following a relationship breakdown? Contact us to find out how we can help you.
How can our Domestic Violence Solicitor help you?
Keats Family Law are experts in all aspects of relationship breakdown.
As Domestic Violence & Abuse Solicitors, we are experienced in cases of conflict.
We are also experienced in making and defending injunction applications.
Whether you are a victim of Domestic Violence or have been accused of Abuse, we are here to help. We will provide confidential advice and non-judgmental support. Firstly, we will give honest and realistic advice tailored to your circumstances.
Then, if you are suffering from Domestic Violence or Abuse, our Specialist Domestic Violence Solicitor will support you with the legal arrangements needed to keep you (and your children) safe.
Alternatively, if you are facing allegations of Domestic Violence or are accused of threatening behaviour, our Specialist Domestic Violence Solicitor will support you through the legal process. This will include defending allegations where required.
There are several ways we can provide the necessary support. In the first instance, we recommend that you attend our initial Fixed Fee Appointment to discuss your options in full. During this appointment, we will use our knowledge and expertise to help you consider your individual circumstances. We will advise you of the steps that need to be taken and of the possible outcome. Whilst doing so, we will ensure that any steps are proportionate to the concerns raised. Then, we will work with you to find the best approach for you and your family.
Do you have Domestic Violence or Abuse concerns? Get in touch for advice and support with considering your options.
Other Resources.
As a victim of Domestic Violence, we understand it can be difficult to ask for help. There are multiple organisations that can support you to put an end to the violence and find the right solution for you and your family. These include:
The Police should be your first port of call. If you fear for your safety, or are in an emergency, call 999.
National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV). NCDV is a charity that assists survivors of Domestic Violence.
Refuge is a charity providing specialist support for women and children experiencing Domestic Violence. They also have a 24-hour freephone helpline- 0808 200 247.
Men’s Advice Line offers support for male victims of Domestic Abuse. They have a freephone helpline- 0808 8010327.
Women’s Aid. Women’s aid is a national charity working to end Domestic Abuse against women and children. Their services include online support, refuge accommodation and outreach services.
ManKind Initiative offers support for male victims of Domestic Violence and Abuse across the UK. They also have a confidential helpline- 01823 334244.
Galop. Galop is a LGBT+ anti-violence charity. They provide emotional and practical support for LGBT+ individuals suffering Domestic Abuse. They also have a helpline- 0207 704 2040.
Families Need Fathers is the UK’s biggest shared parenting charity. They also have a National helpline- 0300 0300 363.
In some cases, Legal Aid may be available to those wanting to make an application for protection. We do not offer Legal Aid. Therefore, if you meet the financial requirements and your case has merit, we can signpost you to the Legal Aid Agency. If you wish to see if you may be eligible, the Government website has a useful check list you can complete.