Domestic Violence

Acts of domestic violence, although they often go unseen by friends and neighbours, are devasting for the sufferer and those close to them.

If you, or someone you know, has suffered from domestic violence, it is important to know that help is at hand and compensation is available. And while it may not be able to undo the past, it can go a long way to helping you make the most of the future.

Anyone can experience domestic abuse regardless of age, religious beliefs, gender disability or social status. For some, there are simply no boundaries to their behaviour.

Domestic abuse is when someone close to you, often a partner or spouse, causes you physical, sexual, financial or emotional hardship. It is a misconception that for you to be categorized as being in an abusive relationship, there must be physical violence. In many cases there is no physical violence; instead, there is psychological and emotional abuse.

Domestic violence can take many forms

Domestic violence can take many forms. Other than physical violence and threats of violence, you may feel intimidated by things that are said to you, or the manner in which you are treated. You may feel controlled and prevented from spending time with friends and family. Abuse can be verbal; you may feel belittled by your partner at home or in front of others. Examples of domestic violence include:

• violent or sexual behaviour
• coercive control, such as degrading or isolating behaviour, and gaslighting (a specific type of manipulation where the manipulator is trying to get someone else to question their own reality, memory or perceptions)
• emotional or psychologically abusive behaviour
• harassment and/or stalking in the real world or online
• financial abuse
• honour-based abuse
• forced marriage

Coming to terms with what type of abuse an individual has suffered is one of the most difficult steps a person can take. A good first step is to speak to a close friend about what you are experiencing. This can give you an outside perspective and shed light on whether the behaviour you have experienced is abusive. You can then consider pursuing a claim for compensation and, more importantly, take steps to leave the abusive environment.

At Price Slater Gawne our legal experts know that acknowledging and accepting that you are in an abusive relationship can be one of the hardest things that you will ever do.

But be assured if you come to us, you will be in the best possible hands. We will provide you with clear and sound advice, and a plan on how to remove you from what could be a dangerous situation. Our experienced legal team are able to act quickly and if necessary, can seek an order from the court to protect you and your children when domestic abuse is taking place.

The Power of Five

We work closely with our expert colleagues in our Divorce and Family Law department who can guide you on issues such as non-molestation orders, child contact, occupation orders, separation and divorce and other related issues.

If you are,  or suspect someone you know is, suffering domestic violence, please do not hesitate: get in touch today. You can call us on 03333 058375 or email SeriousInjury@psg-law.co.uk. We are here to help you.

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