Legal protection against domestic abuse and homelessness

IN figures declared by the Ministry of Housing, 6,000 people in three months (January - March 2019) became homeless because they were fleeing domestic abuse.

Local authorities and charities are struggling to meet the increased demand but there are legal alternatives that a solicitor can help you with that mean you do not have to leave your home.

A non-molestation order from the Family Court can protect you and your children by preventing your abuser from using or threatening violence, intimidating, harassing, contacting or pestering you. Protection can extend to preventing damage, attempts to damage or threats to damage any property including the contents of the family home together with ensuring your abuser cannot encourage third parties to take these actions. Your abuser can also be prevented from entering the family home and to keep a specific distance away from the property. Any breach of a non-molestation order is a criminal offence and automatically arrestable.

A solicitor can also help you apply for an occupation order, ensuring your abuser is removed from the family home, imposing an exclusion zone and preventing them from returning to the property. They can be ordered to continue to pay the mortgage/ rent and any other outgoings for the duration of the order.

Investing in legal advice from a qualified solicitor will help you get the best protection for you and your family and when talking to us at Clarke Willmott you will receive exceptional care and attention to detail.