Landmark Domestic Abuse Bill
On Monday 21st January, the Government announced that a new draft bill concerning the law surrounding domestic abuse had been published. This draft bill contains a number of provisions which, if passed through Parliament, will overhaul to the current system.
The main focus of the bill is to provide more protection for the victims of domestic abuse. This includes proposals to widen the definition of domestic abuse to include coercive behaviour and financial control, recognising this being just as damaging as actual physical violence.
The bill will also introduce a ban on perpetrators of domestic abuse cross-examining their victims in court. This can only be seen as a positive step forward in tackling the issues surrounding domestic abuse and making victims feel that they have more protection and support.
At Wolferstans we have a number of specialist lawyers who regularly support and advise clients on issues of domestic abuse, including seeking protective injunctions from the Court and representing clients in cases regarding the appropriate arrangements for their children.
There are many local charities who offer support to victims of domestic abuse, including Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service and First Light SW. Wolferstans is proud to have been one of the sponsors of the inaugural Plymouth Firestone Freezer New Year’s Day swim which this year raised £5,377.29 for its chosen charity, First Light SW.
If you have any concerns or questions or believe you may be a victim of domestic abuse please get in touch with our Client Co-ordinators. We can also advise you whether you may be entitled to legal aid to assist you with your legal costs.