Domestic Abuse Solicitors

Merriman Solicitors (Incorporating AB Family Law)

No one should feel unsafe in their own home, whether it’s caused by a partner or family member, anyone experiencing domestic abuse should report the matter to the police, where you can, as soon as possible.

We know that it is not always easy for victims to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and many people are unaware of the support available to domestic abuse victims and their children.  

At Merriman Solicitors (Incorporating AB Family Law), we understand the sensitive nature of domestic abuse cases. Our dedicated domestic abuse solicitors are committed to providing confidential, empathetic, and professional legal support to anyone in need. 

Whether you require immediate protection or long-term legal solutions, our domestic abuse lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today today so we can help you.

Understanding Domestic Abuse

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse refers to incidents or patterns of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, and violent behaviour between two people who are personally connected, whether that is through a current or previous relationship, family ties or other.

Abusive behaviour can include, but is not limited to, sexual violence, physical or emotional abuse or blackmail and controlling behaviour. 

What is the difference between domestic abuse and violence?

While often used interchangeably and in the same context, domestic violence specifically refers to physical acts of aggression within a domestic setting, whereas domestic abuse is a broader term that can include various forms of harmful behaviours such as emotional, psychological, and economic abuse. 

What are the different types of domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse can manifest in several ways:

1. Physical abuse
2. Emotional or psychological abuse
3. Sexual abuse
4. Financial or economic abuse
5. Coercive control

What is economic abuse?

Economic abuse is a legally recognised form of domestic abuse and is defined in the Domestic Abuse Act. Economic abuse can take many forms and involves an abuser restricting a person’s ability to acquire, use and maintain money or other economic resources.

 Economic abuse can include the following: 

• Controlling your money or other financial assets
• Spending your money or money which is not theirs 
• Acquiring debt in your name
• Damaging your possessions or property
• Withholding child maintenance payments
• Preventing you from being able to work and earn your own money 
• Refusing to let you claim benefits you are entitled to 

Is mental abuse domestic violence?

Yes, mental or emotional abuse is a form of domestic violence. It can be just as damaging as physical abuse and is recognised by law as a form of domestic abuse.

Legal protection against domestic abuse

What is the Family Law Act 1996?

The Family Law Act 1996 provides legal protection for victims of domestic abuse. It allows courts to issue orders to protect individuals from abusive partners or family members.

Part four of the Family Law Act 1996 was put into place to safeguard people experiencing marriage breakdown or divorce and domestic abuse within a family relationship. 

Under the Family Law Act 1996, our domestic abuse solicitors can apply to the courts for protection from your associated person with an injunction order such as occupation orders, non-molestation orders and further family home-related orders to protect yourself or your child. 

What is a Non-Molestation Order?

A Non-Molestation Order is a type of injunction that prohibits an abuser from intimidating, harassing, or pestering the victim or any relevant children. It’s designed to prevent any further domestic abuse from occurring and to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim and their children.

What is an Occupation Order? 

An Occupation Order refers to an order made by the courts to enforce and restrict the rights to occupy the home. It is important to note that occupation orders are only a short-term solution and will not impact what happens to the property within the final settlement. Occupation orders are not only used to exclude someone from the family home however they can also be used to:

• Require permission to enter and remain in the property
• Require the departure from the property
• Exclude from a denied area in which the property is located 

In order to apply for an Occupation Order, you must be associated with the respondent (person you are applying for the order against). Merriman Solicitors (Incorporating AB Family Law) can apply for an occupation order on behalf of our clients, however clear evidence will need to be provided for the Occupation Order to be submitted. 

How can Merriman Solicitors help?

As experienced domestic violence solicitors, we offer a range of services to support victims of domestic abuse:

1. Obtaining protective orders (Non-Molestation and Occupation Orders)
2. Providing advice on divorce and separation
3. Assisting with child custody and contact arrangements
4. Offering support through the criminal justice process
5. Helping with housing and financial matters related to leaving an abusive relationship

Our team of dedicated domestic abuse solicitors near you is ready to provide the legal support and guidance you need. We understand the courage it takes to seek help, and we’re here to stand by your side. If you need support or advice or wish to speak to one of our domestic violence lawyers, please get in contact with our team to arrange a call or meeting, or visit one of our branches: Marlborough, Chippenham or Gloucester.