How can a Domestic Violence Solicitor Help you?

Understanding the legal system can be challenging. A solicitor can offer you straightforward advice regarding your legal rights in situations of domestic violence. This includes matters related to where children should live, contact arrangements, as well as your right to stay in your home.

Should you choose to pursue legal action, a domestic abuse solicitor will advocate for you, making sure your concerns are addressed and your safety is a top priority. They will assist you throughout the process, helping you grasp what to anticipate and the most effective legal actions to take.

If there are criminal charges involved, such as assault, your solicitor can guide you through the criminal justice system. They can also assist you with family law matters, such as divorce or child arrangements, especially if domestic violence is a factor.

Domestic abuse lawyers understand the deeply personal and often traumatic nature of the situations their clients face. They recognise that these circumstances require not only legal expertise but also a compassionate approach. Therefore, confidentiality is extremely important and they ensure that all communications and personal details remain secure and private. This helps create a safe space for clients to share their experiences and concerns without the fear of being judged or exposed.

A domestic violence solicitor can assist their clients in developing a safety plan tailored to their specific needs. This plan may include strategies for safely leaving an abusive situation and securing housing. By working closely together, these solicitors can help ensure that your safety and wellbeing are prioritised throughout the legal process.

They can also connect you with a range of resources, including support groups, shelters, or counsellors, to aid in your healing process.

A key responsibility of a domestic violence solicitor is to assist clients in securing protective orders to prevent any further abuse. There are several different types of protective orders that domestic abuse solicitors can help with.

A Non-Molestation order is a legal measure designed to protect individuals from harassment, intimidation, or violence by an ex-partner or family member.

When a Non-Molestation order is issued, it legally forbids the abuser from reaching out to the victim in any way. This includes direct contact, phone calls, texts, emails, or even communication through others. It also stops the abuser from making threats or engaging in any actions that might make the victim feel unsafe or threatened.

Breaching a Non-Molestation order can lead to significant legal repercussions for the abuser, including arrest and possible criminal charges.

An Occupation Order helps decide who can stay in the family home after situations involving domestic violence, abuse, or during separations. Its main purpose is to safeguard individuals from harm by either removing the abuser from the home or limiting their access.

An Occupation Order is often used in conjunction with a Non-Molestation Order, but it can also be requested on its own. Ultimately, it aims to provide protection for the person seeking safety, and any children involved.

When domestic violence is a factor, child arrangements can become some of the most delicate and complicated legal matters. A domestic abuse lawyer plays a crucial role in safeguarding your children while managing these challenging situations.

They can help make sure that arrangements for the children focus on the safety and well-being of both you and your child. This encompasses Child Arrangements (live with) and (spend time with) orders.  With their expertise, you can effectively navigate the legal complexities, protect your child from harm, and push for solutions that minimise risks and enhance overall health.

At GSB, we provide compassionate and practical guidance on delicate matters such as domestic violence. If you have experienced domestic abuse, you might also qualify for legal aid.

Our team of knowledgeable family solicitors is available for confidential discussions, and our main goal is to assist you through this challenging period.

For further details on how we can support you, please reach out to us today.

⁽¹⁾ https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/domesticabuseinenglandandwalesoverview/november2022