Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can take many forms and can occur between current or former partners, spouses or family members. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, obtaining legal advice at an early stage can help you understand the options available and the steps that can be taken to protect you and your family.
Our experienced Family Law team provides confidential, sensitive and practical advice to those affected by domestic abuse. Where urgent protection is required, we can advise on making an emergency application to the Family Court.
What Is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence. It can involve a single incident or a pattern of abusive, threatening or controlling behaviour.
Domestic abuse may include:
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Violent or threatening behaviour
- Controlling or coercive behaviour
- Psychological or emotional abuse
- Economic or financial abuse
- Harassment and intimidation
- Repeated or unwanted telephone calls, messages or contact
- Stalking
- Threats against you, your children or others close to you
Abuse can occur during a relationship or after a relationship has ended and can affect people regardless of age, gender or background.
Non-Molestation Orders
A Non-Molestation Order is an order made by the Family Court which can prohibit a person from using or threatening violence, harassing, intimidating or otherwise molesting another person or, where appropriate, a relevant child.
The terms of the order will depend upon the circumstances of the case and the protection required.
In urgent cases, it may be possible to apply to the Court for an order without notice to the other person. We can advise you on whether an urgent application is appropriate and prepare the necessary application and evidence on your behalf.
Breach of a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence.
Occupation Orders
In some circumstances, an Occupation Order may also be required.
An Occupation Order can regulate who is entitled to live in or enter the family home. Depending upon the circumstances, the Court may make an order requiring another person to leave the property, preventing them from returning or regulating how the property is occupied.
We can advise you on whether you may be entitled to apply for an Occupation Order and whether this should be sought alongside a Non-Molestation Order.
Emergency Applications
We recognise that domestic abuse cases can require immediate action.
Where there is an urgent risk to you or your children, our team will prioritise your matter and advise you on the protective measures that may be available.
Where appropriate, we can prepare and make an urgent application to the Family Court and seek an order without first giving notice to the other party.
Our Approach
We understand that speaking about domestic abuse and taking legal action can be extremely difficult.
Our team will listen to your circumstances, explain your options clearly and deal with your matter sensitively and confidentially.
We can assist with:
- Non-Molestation Orders
- Occupation Orders
- Emergency and without-notice applications
- Domestic abuse involving children
- Child Arrangements proceedings where domestic abuse is an issue
- Responding to applications and allegations of domestic abuse
- Breaches of Family Court orders
- Related Family Court proceedings
Throughout your matter, we will provide clear advice and help you understand the legal process and the protective measures available to you.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid may be available for domestic abuse and related family proceedings, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements and the circumstances of your case.
Our team can advise you about eligibility and, where appropriate, assist you with the Legal Aid application process.
Language Assistance
We recognise that discussing domestic abuse can be particularly difficult where English is not your first language.
Members of our team are able to provide assistance in Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu, helping clients understand their legal rights, the options available and the court process.
Contact Our Family Law Team
If you are experiencing domestic abuse or require urgent legal protection, contact our Family Law team for a confidential and sensitive discussion about how we can assist.
Call us on 020 8597 5097 or contact:
Davinder Sehmi
Email: ds@mvlegal.co.uk
Waqqas Malik
Email: wm@mvlegal.co.uk
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.