Being involved in a relationship where there is violence and abuse can feel like the loneliest place in the world with nowhere to turn to. Being free to make a fresh start may seem like it is totally unachievable but making the first step towards it is a very brave achievement.
The term domestic violence does not only cover physical or sexual mistreatment. Other unacceptable behaviours you may be subject to can include verbal abuse, having your lifestyle controlled, harassment and bullying or your methods of communication either removed or monitored. Domestic Violence can happen to anyone at any age – more and more men are finding themselves subject to these acts by their partners and children by their parents or guardians.
Our specialist solicitors understand fully the tremendous negative effects that victims of abuse will suffer, and so will be entirely guided by you as to how and at what pace you wish to progress your case. Even a simple phone call to initially discuss your situation can provide a glimmer of hope at the end of what may appear to be a very long and dark tunnel. They can help you with both short and long term solutions including the involvement of authorities where appropriate or required, alternative living arrangements, securing financial support and deciding on childcare arrangements
Depending on your circumstances, our family law experts can help with:
- obtaining a court order to force your partner to leave the family home; to stop them coming within a certain distance of where you or your family live or work or where your children go to school; or to prevent them from contacting you other than through your solicitor;
- applying to the court for your partner to be arrested if they fail to comply with the terms of any order;
- seeking financial compensation where your partner has been found guilty of harassment;
- supporting you in reporting your partner’s behaviour to the police and social services;
- introducing you to domestic violence charities and agencies who can help with housing needs, assessing entitlement to state benefits and other support; and
- bringing your relationship to an end by commencing divorce or civil partnership dissolution proceedings, negotiating the division of assets and other financial matters, and agreeing arrangements for children.
Advising families throughout Maidstone, Kent and beyond
We have offices in Maidstone, Gravesend, Tonbridge, Chatham and Tenterden where we can meet you to discuss your requirements.
We can also offer meetings by Skype or via home visit where appropriate. .
Legal aid
You may be worried about paying for legal advice, however legal aid is usually available in cases which involve domestic violence.
Get in touch with our domestic violence solicitors in Maidstone, Kent
Call us on 01622 673081. Alternatively, please complete our Contact Us form and we will be in touch as soon as possible. If contact is only possible at certain times or through specific channels of communication please let us know and we will act accordingly.