Need Domestic Abuse Cases Solicitors?

Common assault (Section 39 Criminal Justice Act 1988) involves causing fear of immediate violence without actual physical harm. ABH (Actual Bodily Harm) (Section 47 Offences Against the Person Act 1861) requires more serious physical injury, however minor. In domestic contexts, prosecutors often upgrade charges as investigations progress. Our domestic abuse cases solicitors analyse every detail to challenge the severity of allegations and ensure appropriate charging.

Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015 created a specific offence for controlling or coercive behaviour in intimate or family relationships. It involves repeated patterns of abuse designed to make a person subordinate or dependent. Defences may include arguments that behaviour was legitimate, lacked the required continuity, or did not have the necessary psychological effect. Our specialist solicitors carefully examine the evidence to challenge these serious allegations.

Absolutely. False allegations do occur, sometimes during relationship breakdowns or custody disputes. Our domestic abuse cases solicitors build strong defence strategies by thoroughly investigating claims, examining digital evidence, text messages, and social media, and identifying inconsistencies in witness statements. We protect your reputation and fight for acquittal where allegations are fabricated or exaggerated.

Breach of a non-molestation order is a criminal offence carrying up to 5 years imprisonment. However, defences may apply including lack of knowledge of the order, reasonable excuse, or that the contact was legitimate. Our solicitors represent clients accused of breach, challenging whether the order was properly served, whether breach was intentional, and presenting mitigating circumstances. We also apply to vary or discharge unreasonable orders.

Sentencing depends on offence severity,Aggravating factors, and mitigation. First-time offences without serious injury may receive community orders or suspended sentences. However, breaches, repeated offending, or causing significant injury often result in immediate custody. Our experienced mitigation team works to present compelling cases for non-custodial outcomes, emphasising rehabilitation, employment, family ties, and genuine remorse where appropriate.

Timelines vary significantly. Magistrates' Court cases typically resolve within 6-12 months. Crown Court matters involving trials may take 12-18 months or longer. Our domestic abuse cases solicitors provide realistic timelines during consultations and work efficiently to resolve cases where possible. We keep clients informed throughout and prepare thoroughly for court dates to avoid unnecessary delays.

Non-fatal strangulation is governed by Section 75A of the Criminal Justice Act 2022. It involves intentionally strangling another person without their consent. This is a serious offence that can carry up to 5 years imprisonment upon conviction in the Crown Court. Strangulation allegations are often disputed based on the physical evidence, medical reports, and the circumstances of the alleged incident. Our experienced domestic abuse cases solicitors thoroughly challenge the prosecution evidence in these matters.

Witness intimidation in domestic cases includes any behaviour intended to deter a witness from giving evidence, such as contacting the alleged victim directly, using third parties to pass messages, posting on social media, or making threats. Offences fall under Section 39 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 and can result in up to 5 years imprisonment. Our domestic abuse cases solicitors defend clients against these allegations, often arguing that contact was legitimate or that no intimidation was intended.