According to the Law Society Gazette, family court cases are continuing to grow. The government have been urged to respond to this by ensuring that there is sufficient judicial capacity to deal with the family court backlogs, which has now reached 110,000 according to the latest HM Court & Tribunal Service figures. This increase is reflected in both private law cases and public law cases. The result of the increase in cases coupled with the court backlogs means that it can take much … [Read more...]
Will I have to face my ex-partner in court if I am a victim of domestic abuse?
Having to attend a court hearing is unsettling enough for most people, let alone those who have been victims of domestic abuse at the hands of the other party. Having to face their abuser in court can affect victims mental and emotional wellbeing hugely, in addition to the initial stress and worries of being subject to court proceedings. As a result, the courts have enacted several provisions in order to protect the most vulnerable. Can I apply for special measures? In order to be … [Read more...]
Improvements to the way the family court responds to domestic abuse announced
Domestic abusers – not their victims - to be moved from the family home? In response to calls from charities and campaign groups, councils in England have been considering measures to provide housing for domestic abusers, allowing victims to remain living in the former matrimonial home. The Domestic Abuse Act, which was recently passed by Parliament, compels councils to devise plans to provide housing support for victims and their children. Some Councils, such as Sunderland City Council, … [Read more...]
Domestic Abuse – the new epidemic?
Following a recent report commissioned by Home Secretary Priti Patel, crimes against women and girls are to be considered as much of a priority to the police as anti-terrorism. The report has described inconsistencies in the police’s response to such crimes against women as an “epidemic” of violence against female victims in the UK. More than 1 in 10 of all offences recorded by the police are domestic abuse-related. Several recommendations have now been made that include the consideration … [Read more...]