Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can have a devastating impact on victims and their families. Our domestic abuse solicitors offer a dedicated service to assist victims of domestic violence, offering compassionate support and legal advice.

More about Domestic Violence

Our team of experienced domestic abuse solicitors has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in dealing with cases of domestic violence, and we are committed to providing the highest standard of legal advice and representation to all our clients. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please don't hesitate to contact our team of domestic violence solicitors for help and support.

Advice tailored to you

At Forbes, our domestic violence solicitors have extensive experience of representing clients in injunction cases and non-accidental injuries to a child.

What is Domestic Violence and Abuse?

What is Domestic Violence and Abuse?

Domestic violence and abuse refers to any behaviour that is used to control, intimidate, or cause harm to a partner, spouse, or family member. This can include physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, and controlling & coercive behaviour. Domestic violence and abuse is a criminal offence in the UK and support is available for victims through a range of organisations and government agencies.

You have the right to live your life without fear for your safety and wellbeing

You have the right to live your life without fear for your safety and wellbeing

If you are the victim of domestic violence, Forbes Solicitors' expert team of domestic violence and abuse solicitors can help you get the protection you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

At Forbes we have extensive experience of representing clients in Injunction cases and Forced Marriage Protection Orders. Whether you are the victim of domestic violence or being pressured to marry, and wish to apply for an Injunction or are the one who has been served with Injunction papers, our sympathetic and understanding solicitors are here to help.

The police in the UK receive one call about domestic violence every minute. For those who are the victims of domestic violence there is no need to suffer in silence. The Courts offer protection to those that need it and have the power to make Non-Molestation Orders (Injunctions) that can protect against violence or threats of violence. It is a Criminal offence to breach an Injunction. The Courts also have the power to make Occupation Orders which can force a person to leave a property and order them not to return or go within a certain distance of it.

Our legal experts can help:

  • Protect you from domestic abuse and violence by applying for a court orders which also stop a person from coming near your home;

  • Protect your children; Resolve financial situations;

  • Handle domestic violence and abuse with divorce.

Forbes Solicitors know how serious domestic violence is and can make emergency applications to the Court for Injunctions in appropriate cases. Legal Aid is usually available and eligibility can be assessed at the initial appointment.

If you have been affected by any of the above issues please contact one of our family law team for a confidential chat about the options available to you.

We offer our private paying clients the option of our tailored service or for more straightforward cases a fixed fee service. We also offer advice on some areas for those who qualify for Legal Aid.

Domestic Violence FAQs

What are the different types of domestic violence?

The different types of domestic violence recognised under UK law include physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, and controlling or coercive behaviour. These forms of abuse can occur in any type of relationship, including between spouses, partners, family members, or cohabitants. It is important to seek help and support if you are experiencing any form of domestic violence.

What are the signs of domestic violence?

Signs of domestic violence can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, and controlling behaviour. This can include hitting, punching, kicking, slapping, pushing, or any other physical harm. Emotional abuse can include verbal insults, threats, intimidation, and isolation. Sexual abuse can include forced sexual acts or unwanted sexual advances. Financial abuse can include controlling access to money or preventing a partner from working. Controlling behaviour can include monitoring a partner's movements or preventing them from seeing friends and family. These actions are illegal under UK law.

What should I do if I am a victim of domestic violence?

If you are a victim of domestic violence you should contact the police immediately by calling 999. You can also seek help and support from domestic violence helplines, such as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) or Women's Aid (0808 2000 247). You may also consider obtaining a restraining order or injunction to protect yourself from further harm.

Can I get a restraining order against my abuser?

A restraining order is granted through the police, however a non-molestation order can be applied for under the Family Law Act and that can prevent the respondent from behaving in a certain manner or entering within a certain perimeter of properties.

How can I protect my children from domestic violence?

If you or your children are experiencing domestic violence, you should contact the police immediately. You can also seek help from a domestic violence support service or a solicitor who specialises in family law. You may be able to obtain a court order, such as a non-molestation order or an occupation order, which can provide legal protection for you and your children. It is important to have a safety plan in place and to keep evidence of the abuse, such as photographs or medical records.

What legal options do I have if I am a victim of domestic violence?

If you are a victim of domestic violence you can seek a non-molestation order or an occupation order from the court. You can also report the abuse to the police, who may arrest and charge the perpetrator. Additionally, you can seek support from domestic violence charities and organisations.

How can I get help if I am a victim of domestic violence?

If you are a victim of domestic violence you can seek help by contacting the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or the police by dialling 999 in an emergency. You can also contact a local domestic violence support service or speak to your GP or healthcare professional for advice and support. The law provides protection for victims of domestic violence and there are various legal remedies available, including obtaining a restraining order or injunction.

What are the consequences for the abuser in a domestic violence case?

The consequences for the abuser in a domestic violence case can include imprisonment, a fine, a restraining order, and a criminal record. The severity of the punishment will depend on the severity of the abuse and the circumstances of the case. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties.

How can I prevent domestic violence from happening in the future?

To prevent domestic violence from happening in the future, it is important to raise awareness about the issue and educate people about healthy relationships. The UK law provides protection for victims of domestic violence through the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004, which criminalises coercive and controlling behaviour. It is also important to provide support and resources for victims, such as counselling and safe housing options. Additionally, holding perpetrators accountable through legal action and enforcing restraining orders can help prevent future incidents.

What can Forbes domestic violence solicitors do to help me?

If you have been, or are currently, a victim of domestic violence, then a domestic abuse solicitor can help you to get the justice that you deserve. Although remote working at the minute, Forbes solicitors remain able to assist clients, so you needn't worry that domestic violence claims will go unnoticed - we are still taking these types of legal action extremely seriously.

As well as the initial consultation mentioned above, our team of dedicated domestic violence lawyers are able to help anyone that needs protection - even during this time. Despite not currently being able to meet in person, our professional team will still work with sensitivity and understanding to help you to resolve your situation as quickly as possible.

When I contact a Forbes domestic violence solicitor, what services can you offer?

Forbes can help you to begin applying for a court order to help to protect you and your family from threats of violence and harassment, apply for a court order that states a particular person cannot enter your home, resolve any financial issues or disputes that you may be involved in as a result of your domestic situation and also work to protect any children that may be caught in the middle.

We're aware that, during Covid-19, there will potentially be a surge in domestic violence due to the government's stay at home order (partners often wait until they are alone to report abuse) so now, it's more important than ever to report a situation where you feel at risk. We are a team of professional, experienced and understanding domestic violence solicitors, who, despite the current changes, want to do our best to help.

Get in touch with Forbes domestic violence solicitors today and we will explain exactly what we can do to help your situation during the Coronavirus outbreak. Don't hesitate to get in touch today.

Our dedicated Domestic Violence Team

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Partner and Head of Department, Family/Divorce

Rubina Vohra

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Partner and Head of Department, Family/Divorce

Helen Shirbon

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Partner, Family/Divorce

Gill Carr

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