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Domestic Violence During Coronavirus Lockdown

on Friday, 17 April 2020.

During the coronavirus lockdown we are being asked to socially distance and stay at home. However, home is not a safe place for some.

We look at the implications of the lockdown for domestic abuse victims and the help available.

Whilst families spend increasing amounts of time in close quarters, coupled with the financial and social pressures of the lockdown, many in government and charities are warning of a large increase in cases of domestic violence. These warnings and patterns are being seen all over the world.

What is Domestic Violence?

Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. It is not always physical, and can also include coercive control and gas lighting, online abuse and harassment/stalking.

Coronavirus Legal Advice

Can I Get Help If I am Self-Isolating or Social Distancing at Home?

The most important thing is to keep yourself and any children safe. If you are concerned for your safety, then you should seek help as soon as possible.

The Government's guidance on domestic abuse and coronavirus makes it clear that the instruction to stay at home does not apply if you need to leave your home to escape domestic violence and access help.

  • If you believe you are in immediate risk of abuse or harm, call 999 to contact the police immediately. If you are unable to speak, you can cough or tap the handset.
  • Contact your local social services.
  • Contact an online/telephone helpline such as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247, Women's Aid where you can access a live chat service or Men's Advice These are a small selection of many free helplines, webpages and apps.
  • Contact a solicitor to enquire about what measures can be put in place to protect you and your children.

Can I Take Legal Action?

Solicitors and the courts are still open and operating remotely during the lockdown. Depending on your particular circumstances, there are several options available:

  • Non-Molestation Orders - This is an order forbidding someone from approaching you, being violent or threatening violence. It also usually covers other types of behaviour such as pestering, intimidating or harassing.
  • Occupation Order - This is an order that regulates the occupation of the home. For example, it can determine who can occupy the home and when and can exclude a party from returning to the property. It might also provide for parties to occupy only certain parts of the home.

The Family Courts are operating remotely and prioritising urgent applications such as these. Depending on the circumstances, some applications may be heard on the same day without notice, and in other cases they are heard remotely (using telephone or video links) within days of the application.

How do I Get in Touch with a Solicitor?

We understand the lockdown and living arrangements may make it difficult for you to speak with a solicitor. Our experienced family law solicitors are working remotely and are available to offer legal advice in a way that works for you, whether it be over the telephone, by email or video call and at times that suit you.

Unfortunately we are unable to carry out legal aid work.


If you are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing domestic violence and you would like to speak to specialist family law solicitors about your legal options, please complete the form below.

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