07/08/2025
Domestic abuse is devastating and can take many forms, including physical violence, intimidation, emotional abuse, coercive control and gaslighting.
Individuals affected by domestic abuse can feel extremely isolated and it can be hard to know where to turn for help.
Many services exist to help victims of domestic abuse.
Solicitors also play a key role in this network of support by ensuring people that experience domestic violence receive the protection, guidance and justice they deserve.
In this blog, our specialist Domestic Abuse Solicitors in the North West reveal how lawyers help in domestic abuse situations.
1. Advise on your legal rights.
There are laws to protect you from domestic abuse.
A specialist family law solicitor with experience in domestic abuse cases will help you understand your rights and explain the options available to you legally.
The Family Law Act 1996 provides a civil remedy for molestation, violence and occupation of a home.
Safeguards for victims of domestic violence were further strengthened by the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, which recognised coercive and controlling behaviour as domestic abuse under the law for the first time.
At Russell & Russell, our friendly and professional family lawyers specialise in supporting people affected by domestic abuse.
Our priority is to ensure your safety and that of your children.
It can be difficult to seek help in domestic abuse situations. However, our experienced domestic abuse solicitors will provide the guidance and support you need.
To speak to one of our domestic violence solicitors in the North West, call us on 0800 103 2600 or request a call back.
We have offices across the region, including Chester, Bolton and Bury.
2. Apply for court orders.
A solicitor can apply to the family courts for orders that protect you and your children.
This involves completing the necessary documentation, submitting evidence and representing you in court.
Two main orders are available to protect victims of domestic abuse:
- A non-molestation order. This stops the perpetrator of the abuse from being violent towards you, intimidating and harassing you, or communicating with you. Breaching a non-molestations order is a criminal offence.
- An occupation order. This determines who can live at the family home. It can be used to prevent an abuser approaching or returning to a specified property or going within a specified distance of it.
Usually, court hearings allow both parties to present their arguments.
However, in urgent cases such as where there is a risk of harm, a solicitor can apply for an ‘ex parte order’. This is a legal ruling made by a court without the presence of the opposing party.
An ex parte order can be made within 24 hours and provide immediate protection once it is served on the other party.
3. Safeguard your children.
If you have children, their safety is your priority and ours.
A solicitor can advise on the arrangements that can be put in place for your children’s protection, such as naming them in your application for a non-molestation order. It may also be necessary to apply for a child arrangements order or other order restricting contact with the abuser, such as a specific issue order or prohibited steps order
4. Liaise with other agencies.
In addition to helping with the legal aspects of your case, solicitors work with organisations that can support you in other areas. We can refer you to agencies that provide somewhere for you to live while you get back on your feet and, if necessary, can put you in touch with organisations that offer counselling.
We also refer you to your local Citizens Advice Bureau who work with the Department for Work and Pensions and can advise you of any benefits you may be entitled to.
Social services may also be required to help support your transition to a new life. A list of local domestic abuse support services in the North West is available on Womensaid.org.uk.
5. Access to legal aid.
Victims can be put off getting in touch with a solicitor to help with domestic abuse by the thought of how much it might cost. You might be able to get legal aid if you have evidence that you or your children have experienced domestic abuse and you cannot afford to pay legal costs.
A solicitor can help you assess eligibility and assist with your application.
Domestic Abuse Solicitor Near Me
At Russell & Russell, we understand just how hard it can be for victims of domestic abuse to seek help.
However, speaking to a solicitor who specialises in domestic abuse cases can be the first crucial step towards making a permanent change and escaping the cycle.
Our compassionate and experienced team of domestic violence and emotional abuse specialists provide legal advice and guidance that is proportionate to the concerns you raise.
We take the time to get to know you and understand your situation to come up with solutions that are in your best interests.
If you want some advice about domestic abuse, our solicitors are here to help. To speak to one of our team, please call 0800 103 2600 or request a call back.
In an emergency, call the police on 999.
For more information about how we can help with cases of domestic violence, click here.
Please note that this article is meant as general guidance and not intended as legal or professional advice. Updates to the law may have changed since this article was published.