Domestic Violence Lawyers

Speak to a specialist domestic abuse lawyer at our law firm in North Yorkshire.

We provide a confidential and discreet service for those who have been victims of domestic abuse. Our team of expert domestic violence lawyers are  ready to help from our offices in York, Selby, Malton and Pickering.

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If you are experiencing domestic abuse or have been threatened by your partner, our specialist team of lawyers for domestic violence can help you. Talk to a member of our trained domestic abuse team if you want to take action. Our family law solicitors are here to support you, whatever your wishes or decisions.

As a trusted domestic violence law firm, we understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming. Our team provides calm, confidential guidance so you can understand your rights under domestic violence UK law and take steps to protect yourself and your family.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse refers to a variety of forms of abuse taking place between two people over the age of 16 who are personally connected to each other. This could be through marriage, having an intimate personal relationship, or as relatives.

Abuse can take many forms.

Physical or sexual abuse: This covers physical actions, as well as violent or threatening behaviour. This can include hitting, kicking, biting, restraint, strangulation, cutting, burning and more. These often—but not always—leave physical marks. It can also lead to death or serious long-term injuries.

Controlling or coercive behaviour: Emotional abuse includes bullying, controlling or coercive behaviour. This type of psychological or emotional abuse can be difficult to spot or prove, as it can start small and escalate over time. The coercive control law in the UK states that the following behaviours can be defined as coercive or controlling:

These are just some of the many ways people can use coercive control. Gaslighting may also occur and is sometimes used to make victims doubt their own experiences or perceptions. If you would like to speak to us about controlling and coercive behaviour legislation, our family law team can help explain the law to you.

Financial abuse: Referred to as ‘economic abuse’, it covers behaviour that limits the victim’s ability to use assets and money.

Understanding what domestic violence law in the UK covers can help individuals recognise abusive behaviour and seek legal protection and support.

A domestic abuse solicitor can help

Anyone experiencing abuse is entitled to support. Our trained team of domestic abuse lawyers in York are here to listen and support you. We can assist you in arranging to separate from an abusive partner, including securing court protection if necessary.

Our domestic violence lawyers can explain the legal protections available under domestic violence law and guide you through the most appropriate steps for your situation.

We are proudly:

Legal aid for domestic abuse victims

You have a number of options available if you are or have been a victim of domestic abuse. The first and most important consideration is securing your safety, and we can provide legal advice on the most appropriate options for you.

Our domestic abuse solicitors can carry out a Legal Aid Assessment for you. We do not charge for doing this assessment. Future legal steps will vary depending on your situation.

Our domestic abuse solicitors can guide you through the following:

These legal protections are designed to help keep you safe. For example, a non-molestation order can prevent an abuser from contacting or harassing you, while an occupation order can regulate who is allowed to live in the family home. Our domestic violence lawyers can explain these options clearly and help you apply for the protection you need.

Domestic abuse, divorce and child arrangements

Domestic abuse can often lead to the breakdown of a relationship or marriage. If you are considering separation or divorce, it is important to understand your legal rights and the protections available.

Our family law team can advise on divorce proceedings where domestic abuse has occurred, helping to ensure that your safety and wellbeing remain the priority throughout the process.

Where children are involved, the court will always prioritise their welfare and safety. Evidence of domestic abuse may affect decisions about child arrangement orders, including where children live and how contact takes place.

Please do not suffer in silence. You are not to blame. Domestic abuse is a crime.

Useful help and support

National Domestic Violence Helpline (Freephone 24 hr) - 0808 2000 247

Domestic Abuse Services:

Citizen’s Advice Bureau:

Hospitals:

Housing Services:

The police can protect you by providing immediate assistance and taking legal action to bring offenders before the courts. The Crown Prosecution Service is committed to prosecuting offenders whenever possible, and in many areas there are specialist criminal courts and specially trained child protection police officers.