Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is when one person hurts or controls their intimate partner. It’s not just physical; it can also be psychological, sexual, emotional, or financial. Many victims don’t realise or admit they’re being abused. Domestic violence often gets worse over time, so it’s crucial to seek help early.

If you’re a victim of domestic abuse, remember it’s not your fault. Abusive partners often make victims feel responsible for the abuse. Domestic violence usually happens because one person wants control or power. This might get worse with drugs, alcohol, stress, or mental health issues, but these don’t justify the behavior.

Sometimes, abusers act this way because of jealousy, low self-esteem, or fear of losing their partner. Instead of working through these problems, they become abusive. In some cases, a male partner might feel threatened if the female achieves success, leading to violence. Whatever the reason, domestic violence is never okay and should be reported to the police as soon as possible.

Not all domestic abuse cases will proceed to court, particularly in situations where the abuser has pleaded guilty to the charges. However, in situations where they have pleaded not guilty to the charges, a trial will be held in either the magistrates or crown court.

Yes, there is a statute of limitations on domestic violence in the UK.

A victim of domestic abuse has 6 months from formally reporting an offence of domestic abuse to the police to initiate prosecutions and two years from the date of offence to prosecute the abuser.

When someone is sentenced for domestic abuse, the court looks at different things like the type of abuse, what made it worse or better, who’s at fault, and how much harm was done.

For example, if it’s harassment and stalking causing fear of violence, with high fault, it might start with a 5-year prison term and could range from 3.5 to 8 years. You can learn more about these rules in the sentencing guidelines for domestic abuse.

In the law, coercive control, gaslighting and emotional abuse is an offence of domestic abuse and is considered an act or continuous pattern of assaults, threats, humiliation and intimidation. This type of abuse is intended to harm, punish or scare the victim in an attempt to control them, along with manipulating them into self-doubt and confusion.

Once you’ve reported the incident to the police, the next step is to get advice from a domestic violence lawyer. When you choose Crisp and Co to help you, our top priority is keeping you and your children safe from your abusive partner. We take every domestic violence report seriously, no matter the circumstances, and we’ll do what’s needed to protect you from harm, whether it’s physical or psychological.

If you’re facing abuse at home, your domestic violence lawyer can help you get an injunction against your partner. There are three types of court orders our domestic abuse lawyers can request on your behalf:

Non-Molestation Order

A Non Molestation Order, which can be obtained in civil courts with less evidence than a criminal court, stops your partner from bothering, harassing, threatening, or harming you and your children. For instance, in cases of domestic violence, you can provide evidence such as photos of property damage or injuries you’ve suffered. While proving psychological abuse is more challenging, your dedicated solicitor will assist you in securing the Non Molestation Order to prevent future abuse.

You can also seek an emergency Non Molestation Order without prior notice, which remains in effect for 28 days. After this period, the abuser has a chance to defend themselves, and you can establish a more lasting order.

Occupation Order

An Occupation Order defines who can and cannot live in a property. By applying for an Occupation Order against your partner, they will be legally prevented from entering your property. These orders can be tailored to your individual needs, and the court will decide which approach to take in order to protect you and your children from further abuse.

Prohibited Steps Order

Our domestic abuse legal experts can assist you in establishing a Prohibited Steps Order if you have concerns about your children’s safety. This order prevents your partner from removing your children from your custody, providing you with the assurance that their well-being is securely safeguarded.

Our forward-thinking fixed-fee billing system offers you peace of mind by basing your quote on the intricacies of your case, rather than the hours expended. This quote is agreed upon in advance.