Domestic abuse – Consult the legal experts

Edwina Harkin, head of family, Paul Crowley & Co

Sponsored content

At Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors, we are committed to helping end domestic abuse for good. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, our dedicated team of family law experts is here to help.

In the year between March 2020 and March 2021, there were 845,734 recorded domestic abuse-related crimes in England and Wales – a 6% increase from the previous year, with a surge in domestic violence against women rising by almost 40% after the final whistle at football matches.

These crimes can affect not only the victim’s physical and emotional wellbeing, but also that of their family, friends and livelihood too.

What is domestic abuse?

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (DAA), which came into force in January 2022, gives a legal definition of domestic abuse. Section 1 requires that the people involved are over 16 and “personally connected”, for example, former partners or relatives.

There are different types of behaviour which now constitute domestic violence:

• Physical or sexual abuse
• Violent and threatening behaviour
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Controlling behaviour – acts which threaten, humiliate or intimidate in order to harm, punish or frighten the victim
• Coercive control – acts designed to make a person subordinate and dependent by isolating them from support, regulating their behaviour and depriving them of independence
• Economic abuse – any behaviour which substantially affects your ability to gain and use money or obtain goods

What can I do as a victim of domestic abuse?

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and are in immediate danger, always call 999 for assistance. You should contact the police and report the abuse as a crime. At Paul Crowley & Co we can apply for an order on your behalf under the Family Law Act 1996:

• Non-Molestation order: This is an order which prevents your abuser from coming within a specified distance of you and your property or communicating with you in any way
• Occupation order: This is an order which enforces your right to live in the family home and lets you control who comes into your property. If the perpetrator of the abuse breaks the rules set out in a non-molestation order, it can lead to their arrest and a custodial sentence being imposed

What is a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)?

Introduced by the DAA 2021 legislation, domestic violence protection notices are served by the police on the perpetrator and then approved by the magistrates’ court. They give the victim immediate protection after an incident. The restrictions in the notice appear as a domestic violence protection order which can apply for 14-28 days, and can require the abuser to leave and stay away from the victim’s home and surrounding area.

Why choose Paul Crowley & Co solicitors?

Here at Paul Crowley & Co, we understand that domestic abuse is a very sensitive topic, and we will not pressure you into taking any action that you aren’t comfortable with.

Our solicitors are here to listen without judgement to your story and find out the best way of proceeding safely. Although our main goal is to achieve justice for victims, we cover other cases too. For example, if you believe you have been falsely accused of being a perpetrator of domestic violence, our team will hear you out and help you achieve justice.

If you’ve been a victim of domestic abuse or violence and want to know more about your legal options, Paul Crowley & Co solicitors are here to help. Contact one of our friendly team of family law solicitors so we can discuss your case further.

For a free, no-obligation chat with one of our experienced domestic abuse lawyers call us now on 0151 264 7363

PAUL CROWLEY & CO… ON YOUR SIDE

Related posts:

Dental Negligence Claims – Consult the legal experts Caught drink or drug driving? Consult the legal experts The path to a rewarding career in law with Paul Crowley & Co Accidents in the workplace? Consult the legal experts Conveyancing made easy – Consult the legal experts Accepting a police caution – Consult the legal experts