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Domestic Violence Solicitors

In a relationship, nobody should ever feel threatened or have to endure domestic violence or abuse. If you’re going through this tough situation and don’t know where to turn for help, please know that there is assistance and support available.

At GSB, we have a team of experienced family solicitors you can talk to in complete confidence; we’re here to offer sympathetic and practical advice on sensitive issues. We understand the emotions and concerns you may be dealing with, and our priority is to support you during this difficult time.

Domestic Abuse Legal Support

Our specialists can help you:

Apply for court orders to protect you and your family
Resolve financial issues
Work to protect your children
Divorce an abusive partner

Our Commitment to Domestic Violence Victims

Domestic abuse, whether it takes place as physical or emotional harm, is absolutely unacceptable within the context of any relationship. It is never acceptable for anyone to feel frightened or threatened in their own home.

We understand that walking away from an abusive partner isn’t always straightforward, especially when children are involved or financial resources are limited. That’s why it’s crucial to confide in someone you trust, a legal expert who can talk through your options and provide the assistance needed to bring an end to domestic abuse.

Our Role as Domestic Abuse Solicitors

As domestic violence solicitors, our primary objective is to quickly understand your unique circumstances and prioritise your safety. If you are currently in immediate danger, we are prepared to take rapid action.

In situations where it is necessary, we can secure court orders, such as an occupation order, to safeguard you and your family from an abusive partner.

FAQs

What is ‘domestic abuse’?

Domestic abuse or domestic violence can take many forms. It can be by a partner, ex-partner or a family member. It does not always need to be physical abuse. It can include all or some of the following:

Harassment – stalking, sending unwanted texts, posting about you on social media.
Isolation – preventing you access to friends and family, restricting access to your phone or social media.
Verbal abuse – name calling, belittling, excessive shouting.
Threats – threatening violence to you or family members, destroying your belongings.
Controlling behaviour – restricting your access to money, clothes or food, monitoring your calls, texts or social media.
Sexual violence – using force, degrading you, making sexual and violent threats.
Emotional abuse – putting you down, making you feel guilty.

What orders can I get to protect myself?

The two types of orders that you can be put in place to protect you are:

Non Molestation Order

This stops someone from using or threatening violence against you. It also can put restrictions in place to stop them coming near your home.

It is a criminal offence to breach an order and so the person can be arrested.

Occupation Order

This says who can live in the family home and who might have to leave for a period of time to give some protection to a person or children. It cannot also prevent someone who has left the property from approaching the house or coming within a certain distance of it.

It does not matter if the person does not own the home they live in. The Court can still make an order regulating who lives there.

When should I call the police?

You should try and report any incidents to the police as soon as you can. If you think your in immediate danger you should ring 999.

You can report incidents to the police after they have happened if you didn’t feel able to at the time.

If you have been injured in any way, go see your GP.

I have been served with a non-molestation order and I do not agree, what do I do next?

You should contact a solicitor for legal advice as soon as possible.

There will be a court hearing listed and you should attend even if you do not have a solicitor and let the Court know why you do not agree and what you want to happen. The Court will then decide if the order should continue.

Is legal aid available?

If you have been a victim of domestic abuse, you may be entitled to legal aid.

It will be subject to an assessment of your income. It is available for people that are in receipt of certain benefits or that are on a low income and have minimal capital (savings or assets).

We can assess whether you are eligible for legal aid and if not, we can discuss your options with you. Please contact us to undertake a legal aid assessment.