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Family Law

Domestic Abuse: Protecting You and Your Family

Domestic abuse is never acceptable. It can take many forms, physical, emotional, financial, or sexual, but whatever shape it takes, it leaves people feeling unsafe in their own homes and relationships. At Gordons Partnership, we help clients protect themselves and their children from harm.

If you are experiencing abuse, you may feel isolated, anxious, or unsure what steps to take. Our family law team has supported many clients in similar situations. We provide clear advice, act quickly where protection is needed, and guide you through the legal options in a sensitive and confidential way.

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What Counts as Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence. It can include:

  • Emotional or psychological abuse: verbal attacks, name-calling, threats, intimidation, or manipulation.
  • Gaslighting: making you doubt your memory or perception of reality by presenting false information.
  • Controlling or coercive behaviour: restricting your freedom, isolating you from friends and family, monitoring your movements, or controlling daily decisions.
  • Economic abuse: preventing you from accessing money, restricting use of bank accounts, or controlling resources like food and transport.
  • Sexual abuse: coercion, manipulation, or unwanted sexual activity.
  • Physical violence: direct harm or threats of harm.

Abuse can happen in any relationship, married couples, cohabiting partners, former partners, or even family members.

Taking the First Step

Admitting that you are experiencing abuse can be one of the hardest things to do. Many people fear not being believed, feel ashamed, or worry about the impact on their children. Others may depend financially on their abuser or fear what might happen if they try to leave.

You are not alone. There are legal protections available, and our team is here to help you understand them and take action if needed.

If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 999 straight away.

How the Law Can Help

The family court has powers to grant orders that can protect you and your children:

Non-Molestation Orders

These prevent an abuser from threatening, harassing, or contacting you. Breaching such an order is a criminal offence.

Occupation Orders

These regulate who can live in the family home. They may prevent an abuser from entering or coming near your property, even if they own or jointly own it.

Orders Relating to Children

Where children are at risk, the court can make orders to protect their safety and welfare.

Our Role

At Gordons Partnership, we handle domestic abuse cases with urgency and sensitivity. We:

  • Listen carefully and without judgment.
  • Explain your options in clear, straightforward language.
  • Prepare urgent applications to court where protection is needed.
  • Work alongside agencies and support services where appropriate.
  • Help you with related issues such as divorce, finances, and child arrangements.

We know that taking legal action can feel daunting. Our role is to support you through each step, ensuring you are never left unsure about what is happening or what comes next.

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When Abuse Affects Children

Children are often deeply affected by abuse, whether directly or by witnessing it. Protecting their safety and wellbeing is a priority for both the courts and our team. We advise on:

  • Emergency applications to protect children.
  • Child arrangements where there are concerns about an abusive parent.
  • Working with social services and other agencies where necessary.

Alternatives and Support

Legal remedies are one part of protecting yourself. Emotional and practical support is just as important. We encourage clients to reach out to specialist organisations who can provide advice, safe accommodation, and support services. These services are independent, confidential, and available free of charge.

Some key helplines include:

  • Women’s Aid National Helpline: 0808 2000 247
  • Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
  • National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428
  • Hourglass (support for older people): 0808 808 8141
  • National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300
  • Victim Support: 0808 1689 111

When You Are Wrongly Accused of Domestic Abuse

False allegations of domestic abuse can be highly damaging. At Gordons, we act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and make sure your side of the story is heard. We represent you in court, prepare your response, and work to safeguard your relationship with your children.

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Questions Clients Often Ask

Do I need evidence to get a court order?

The court will want as much detail as possible, but you do not need to wait until you have “proof” to seek protection. Your statement and supporting information (texts, emails, medical notes, or witness accounts) can be enough.

What if my partner owns the house?

An Occupation Order can still restrict their access to the property if that is needed to keep you safe.

Can I apply on my own?

Yes. You can apply without your partner knowing in urgent cases. The court may grant an order before your partner is even aware of the application.

How long do these orders last?

It depends. Some are temporary (lasting until a further hearing), others can run for months or longer. Orders can be extended if necessary.

Will going to court make things worse?

Taking action can feel intimidating, but legal protection often makes a significant difference. The law is designed to keep victims safe, not to punish them for speaking out.

What happens if I’m wrongly accused of domestic abuse?

You should seek legal advice immediately. The court will look at the evidence before making any orders, and having representation ensures your case is presented clearly.

Can false allegations affect child arrangements?

Yes, but we can help you challenge the claims and protect your role in your child’s life.

Will the court believe the allegations automatically?

No. The court will only act on evidence, which is why a strong and clear response is vital.

Can I get legal aid for domestic abuse cases?

Yes, legal aid is available for victims of domestic abuse. However, at Gordons Partnership we do not offer a legal aid service.

Why People Choose Gordons Partnership

Our priority is always your safety and the safety of your children. Clients who come to us for help with domestic abuse value our:

Urgency

We act quickly when safety is at risk.

Clarity

We explain options without jargon.

Sensitivity

We handle cases with care and discretion.

Experience

We have supported many people through similar situations.

Our Family Law Team

If you need advice in relation to any family matter, please do not hesitate to contact our family team.

Speak to Our Family Law Team

If you are experiencing abuse, you do not need to go through it alone. We are here to provide confidential advice, explain your legal options, and act quickly where urgent protection is needed.

Gordons Partnership – clarity and confidence in legal advice, from people you can trust.

Call us on 01483 451900

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