There are many types of domestic abuse that can be committed by a spouse or partner.

And, it is important to note, that in order to be classified as domestic abuse, there does not need to be any recorded episode of physical harm; both actual and threatened harm qualify as domestic abuse, as well as all of the following:

• Abuse of a sexual, physical, emotional or psychological nature.
• Controlling, intimidating or threatening behaviour
• Financial abuse or control
• Social control or forced isolation

Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of their age, race, class, sex, gender or culture. Although men are the most common perpetrators of domestic abuse, they too can suffer abuse of this nature and are protected similarly under the relevant laws.

Whoever you are and whatever your circumstances, contact Simply.Law today so that we can find the family lawyer who can help you protect your rights so that you can stay safe, clear of harm and intimidation.

Domestic violence law changes under the Prison and Courts Bill

In 2017 the UK government finalised plans to remove the five-year time limit for the giving of evidence in domestic abuse cases, thereby making it easier for victims to secure legal aid to support them through their cases. The move brought an end to the old 24-month time limit, which had been criticised as wholly inadequate by many domestic violence support groups.

In addition, the Ministry of Justice confirmed that it would broaden the types of evidence it would allow courts to accept in domestic violence cases. This means that evidences from solicitors or organisations that work with domestic abuse victims are now able to be admitted in such cases.

“Relaxing time and evidence restrictions so more victims of domestic violence can get legal aid for court hearings will be a welcome relief for many people. Today’s positive decision is the end result of work we and other organisations have been doing with the MoJ for many months,” said a spokesperson with the Law Society.

Further proposals under the Prisons and Courts Bill would prevent abusers who have been charged with or convicted for domestic violence offences from cross-examining or questioning victims in court.

Another important change empowered judges to prevent parties from cross-examining witnesses even if they had not been charged or convicted of an offence. This is because of concerns that this dynamic can diminish the quality of evidence while also causing alleged victims to suffer significant distress.

In the event that the party could not cross examine a witness and did not have a solicitor to do so, courts would have had the power to appoint a suitable legal representative to carry out the cross examination.

In April 2017, the Bill ran out of parliamentary time due to an early general election being called, so it could not progress further.

Domestic violence solicitors you can trust

Simply.Law’s membership includes many of the most experienced and trusted domestic violence solicitors in the UK, drawn from some of its leading law firms. In addition, our member specialists possess membership of organisations such as Resolution and the Law Society Family Panel.

We understand that trying to seek the protection of the law in matters involving alleged abuse on the part of spouses, partners and other family member can be incredibly difficult.

All of our member domestic abuse lawyers share the same commitment to the Simply.Law Lawyer Code, which means that you can be assured of receive legal assistance that upholds the following principles:

• Integrity
• Objectivity
• Accountability
• Openness
• Honesty

If you would like to contact us today, in confidence, why not give our team a call. Alternatively, please browse through our member profiles or try our Match Service.