Domestic Violence Definition
Practice Direction 12J (3) provides a definition of Domestic Violence within Family Law Proceedings. This states that:
‘Domestic abuse’ includes an incident, or multiple incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour on someone aged 16 or over who has/had an intimate partner or family member. This is regardless of gender of sexuality.
‘This can encompass, but is not limited to: Psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional abuse.
‘Domestic abuse also includes culturally specific forms of abuse including, but not limited to, forced marriage, honour-based violence, dowry-related abuse and transitional marriage abandonment.’