-
The ‘double impact’ of Domestic Violence
-
Dated:
15/10/2012
Key Contact:
Emma Pearmaine
The recent case in which a TV presenter received a conviction for harassment causing fear of violence has focused the spotlight once more upon domestic violence issues. What has been different about the coverage, and indeed what the case represents, is the growing need to consider domestic violence in all its forms.
Traditionally, the emphasis has been upon the physical aspects, and the impact of this cannot be underestimated. However, the jury in the case were principally concerned with the issues of emotional and psychological abuse. As the Chief Crown Prosecutor in the case stated, 'both can be equally serious and distressing'. This need to consider all facets of domestic abuse cases has led the Home Office to update its definition of what domestic abuse means, to recognise aspects such as psychological intimidation and controlling behaviour. The definition is due to be implemented in March 2013.
The widening of the Home Office definition is particularly important, as it represents a shift towards recognising the subtleties and complexities of domestic abuse. Whilst a strict definition is impossible, it can include many behaviours such as attempts to undermine the sufferer’s self-esteem, preventing them from seeing friends or family, restricting their access to money or even controlling the way in which they dress.
In domestic abuses cases court intervention can be sought, for example by way of non-molestation orders and occupation orders. A non-molestation order covers a wide range of conduct, from actual violence to threats of violence, and can be made where the applicant’s health (both physical and mental), safety and well-being are at risk. Occupation orders enable the court to regulate who occupies a property, including restricting or suspending the rights of a party to do so. Both types of order can be made on an emergency basis.
As Family solicitors, the team at Simpson Millar recognise the importance of a sensitive and personalised approach in domestic abuse cases, with a team of experienced solicitors who can provide advice and assistance. We can carry out an assessment of eligibility for Legal Aid and may still be able to assist at competitive rates even if this is not available. Please contact a member of the Family team for further details.
Get the news direct to your Email Inbox
If you liked this article you can sign up to receive our news articles via email
here:
Subscribe to our Daily News updates
PR Contact
For any PR enquiries please contact:
Christina Savage at RTS Media
on tel: 01942 396701, mobile: 07932 944 008 or send an email.
Disclaimer: No information on this website shall be construed as
legal advice and information is offered for general information purposes only based
on the current law when the information was first displayed on this website. You
should always seek advice from an appropriately qualified solicitor on any specific
legal enquiry. Calls to or from our legal helpline may be recorded for training
and monitoring purposes.
External links are provided for your convenience, but they are beyond the control
of Simpson Millar LLP and no representation is made as to their content. Use or
reliance on any external links and the content thereon provided is at your own risk.
Full terms of use...