Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse (which ranges from violence to psychological cruelty) most commonly occurs within the confines of the home, behind, closed doors, with no outsider witnessing the event. Domestic abuse cuts across all classes of society. The statistics are dreadful. It is estimated that one in four women will experience some form of abuse. Men are also (though less frequently) victims of domestic abuse.
‘Domestic abuse’ has replaced the term ‘domestic violence’, recognising that it is possible to be badly harmed without being physically assaulted.
Children may not be directly abused, but will suffer from seeing a parent being abused.
The police have proper procedures and officers to deal with domestic abuse, and their powers of intervention have been strengthened.
Of you are the subject of abuse, you need to take steps quickly to protect yourself, and any children who live with you. Deal with the practical issues of safety first, and then take legal steps to protect your rights.
Making sure that you are safe
In principle, and generally, it is tactically better to remain in the family home until either an agreement is reached or court proceedings have been finalised. But in an emergency you may have no choice except to leave home for the time being so as to be safe from injury, or to seek an emergency injunction to get your partner out of the home, and to stop the abuse.
Consult the experts. For more information or a free legal opinion telephone 020-7381-8111 (24 hour service) or email law@rhplaw.co.uk.
