Domestic Violence

Our Domestic Abuse Services

Domestic abuse takes many forms, and the right legal response depends on your situation. Here’s where our team can help.

What Counts as Domestic Abuse?

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 gives abuse a wide legal definition. It includes physical and sexual abuse, but also controlling or coercive behaviour, economic abuse, and psychological or emotional abuse. It can come from a partner, an ex-partner, or another family member, and it can happen without a single physical incident ever taking place.

Non-Molestation Orders

A non-molestation order is a civil court order stopping someone from using or threatening violence against you, or from intimidating, harassing or pestering you. It’s made under Part 4 of the Family Law Act 1996. Breaching it is a criminal offence, and can lead to arrest.

Occupation Orders

An occupation order decides who can live in, or must stay away from, the family home. It can require an abusive partner to leave, even if they own or rent the property, where that’s necessary for your safety. We can apply for this urgently, often within days. In urgent situations, applications can sometimes be made without notifying the other party in advance.

Police Protection: DVPNs and DVPOs

The police can issue a Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) on the spot, giving you immediate breathing space. This must go before a court within 48 hours, which can then make a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) lasting up to 28 days.

A separate order, the Domestic Abuse Protection Order, is being piloted in parts of the country and is intended to eventually replace this system nationally. It is not yet available in the East Midlands, so the DVPN and DVPO route remains the current option here.

Safe Arrangements for Children

Where children are involved, we help put safe contact arrangements in place, including supervised contact or no contact where that’s necessary. See our Child Arrangements page for how these arrangements work more generally.

Domestic Abuse and Child Arrangements

Allegations of domestic abuse are taken seriously by the Family Court. Where concerns are raised, the court may need to consider whether findings should be made before determining arrangements for a child. We regularly advise both applicants and respondents in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour and emotional harm.

Divorce, Separation and Financial Matters

If you’re ready to end the relationship, we can advise on divorce, separation and financial arrangements alongside your immediate protection. See our Divorce & Separation hub for the full range of options.

A Common Misconception: “I’ll Lose My Children If I Leave”

This fear stops many people asking for help, but it isn’t how the law works. Courts prioritise a child’s safety and welfare above all else. Being the parent who leaves an abusive relationship to protect yourself and your children is not held against you.

How We Support Domestic Abuse Cases

Every situation is different, but our approach follows a consistent path, shaped by our Client Service Charter.

1. Your first conversation – A confidential conversation to understand your situation. There’s no pressure to commit to any course of action.
2. Immediate safety – Where needed, we act urgently: applying for a non-molestation order, an occupation order, or liaising with the police.
3. Wider support – We help you access practical support alongside legal advice, including specialist domestic abuse services and housing advice.
4. Staying informed – You’ll have a named contact with a direct dial and mobile number, and every matter is supervised by a Partner or Legal Director.
5. Looking ahead – When you’re ready, we help with divorce, separation, financial arrangements and safe arrangements for children.

Why Choose Nelsons for Domestic Abuse Cases

Our reputation comes from decades of family law casework in the East Midlands, and from named recognition in the legal directories.

• Verified specialist support – Melanie Bridgen, Partner and the wider family team specialise in complex domestic abuse and coercive control cases, including fact-finding hearings and non-molestation and occupation order applications.
• Recognised by the legal directories – Ranked in Chambers and Partners and ranked Tier 1 by The Legal 500 for family law.
• Resolution and Law Society accredited – Our family law team includes Resolution-accredited specialists and Law Society Family, Advanced Family and Children Panel members.
• Rapid response – We understand these situations are urgent, and act the same day wherever possible.
• East Midlands presence, national backing – Offices in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham, backed by Lawfront’s national family law network.

Testimonials…

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

Whatever stage you’re at, whether you need urgent protection or simply want to understand your options, we’re here to listen without judgement.

Call 0800 024 1976 or contact us via our online enquiry form in confidence.

If you need immediate support, Women’s Aid and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) are available 24 hours a day.