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Your Family, You & Domestic Abuse

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Legal Advice for Domestic Abuse Situations

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, know that legal help is available to protect you and your family. Domestic abuse takes many forms—physical, emotional, financial, psychological and coercive and controlling behaviour. Getting the right legal support is essential. In the UK, there are a range of legal services specifically designed to help you find safety, secure your rights, and move forward with confidence.

// Family Law - Domestic Abuse

Leaving a domestic abuser is a courageous decision that opens the door to safety, peace, and freedom. While the journey may seem overwhelming, the benefits are life-changing. You’ll regain control over your life—free from fear, manipulation, and harm.

This step allows you to rebuild your confidence, protect your well-being, and create a safer, healthier environment for yourself and your loved ones.

You're Not Alone

Legal protection and support: Over 30,000 non-molestation orders were granted in the UK in 2021, helping survivors secure legal protection and rebuild their lives safely after leaving abusive relationships.

Emotional and mental health recovery: Victims of domestic abuse are twice as likely to suffer from depression or anxiety disorders. Leaving an abusive environment is a crucial step towards healing and mental well-being.

Safety and protection: In 2022, 1.6 million women and 757,000 men in the UK reported experiencing domestic abuse. Leaving an abuser can significantly reduce the risk of continued violence and harm.

Remember before you pick up the phone and call me...

By walking away, you’re not just escaping the abuse—you’re choosing a future filled with possibilities, self-respect, and the opportunity to heal.

It’s a powerful step towards reclaiming your life and your happiness. Remember, help is available, and you no longer have to do it alone.

// Family Law - Domestic Abuse

How We Can Help Protect You & Your Family

Dealing with domestic abuse is incredibly difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right legal support, you can take back control of your life. I am here to provide clear, compassionate legal guidance, helping you every step of the way. Whether you need protection through court orders, guidance on child arrangements, or support through divorce, I will work to ensure your safety and well-being are the priority.

Non-Molestation Orders

A non-molestation order is designed to protect you from harassment, threats, or violence from your abuser. This court order prevents the abuser from contacting you or coming near your home.

Breaching a non-molestation order is a criminal offence, providing you with stronger protection.

A barrister can guide you through applying for this order, ensuring it’s put in place quickly and effectively.

Occupation Orders

If you need to remove your abuser from the family home, an occupation order can give you the legal right to stay while excluding them.

This type of order can also regulate who can live in the property and outline any necessary terms, such as who pays for the mortgage or bills.

If the home environment is unsafe, a barrister can help you secure this order to regain control and protect your living situation.

Prohibited Steps Orders

If children are involved, a prohibited steps order can be used to stop your abuser from taking specific actions, such as removing your children from school or taking them abroad without permission.

Protecting your children’s welfare is paramount, and this order ensures your rights as a parent are secured.

A barrister can help you understand your options and apply for the necessary protection in court.

Child Arrangements Orders

In cases of domestic abuse, managing contact between your children and the abuser can be challenging.

A child arrangements order outlines when and how contact with the children will take place, ensuring it’s done in a way that is safe for everyone involved.

A barrister will help you put the right safeguards in place, protecting your children from harm while maintaining a legal structure around their care.

Divorce and Financial Settlements

Leaving an abusive relationship often involves untangling finances, property, and assets.

If you are married to your abuser, you will likely need help securing a fair divorce settlement. This can include dividing property, pensions, and other financial matters.

Having a barrister on your side ensures that you are not left vulnerable during this process, advocating for your financial rights and securing a safe future.

// Family Law

Getting Your Life Back

If you’re in a situation where domestic abuse—whether physical, emotional, financial, or coercive—is part of your life, reaching out for legal help can feel intimidating.

But it’s also the first step towards reclaiming your safety and control. I provide legal advice to both men and women facing these challenges, and I’m here to help you apply for the protection you need.

Whether it’s securing a non-molestation order, or getting emergency help for one party to leave the home, I’ll guide you through the process with care and expertise.

You don’t have to face this alone. Consulting a barrister gives you access to the legal tools designed to protect you and your loved ones.

My goal is to offer you a clear path forward, giving you the legal support you need to feel safe and secure. Reaching out is a powerful step—one that helps you take back control of your life.

Let’s work together to ensure your safety is the priority.

Arlene Small

Specialist Family Barrister

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What People Say

Francesca Ononye Solicitor

“Arlene Small is extremely knowledgeable in anything family law and practice. What I found more compelling though was her ability to put my clients at ease even in very difficult and complex situations.”

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Gill Hadley Insolvency Lawyer

“Arlene is absolutely fabulous. Her work, her commitment to others and above all her passion to do what’s right, just makes the person she is. Arlene is a real credit to her profession.”

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Ms L F

“I have used Arlene Small for a few years now to assist with multiple family court hearings. I have nothing but the up most respect and gratitude for this amazing woman! She is so on the ball, her ability to retain information, think on her feet and her attention to detail is outstanding

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Get in Touch

If you're facing domestic abuse, reaching out for help is a brave and important step. I understand how difficult it can feel, but you don't have to face this alone. Whether you need protection, legal guidance, or simply a way out, I’m here to listen and to support you every step of the way. Your safety and well-being matter, and legal help is available to give you the protection and peace of mind you deserve.

// Family Law - Domestic Abuse

FAQs for Domestic Abuse Legal Advice

What types of domestic abuse do you provide legal help for?

I offer legal support for all forms of domestic abuse, including physical, verbal, emotional, financial abuse, and coercive and controlling behaviour. Whether you’re facing harassment, threats, or financial control, I can help you understand your rights and secure the protection you need.

How can you help me apply for a protection order?

If you need protection, I can assist you in applying for a non-molestation order or an occupation order. These orders prevent your abuser from contacting you or staying in the family home. I’ll guide you through the legal process and ensure your safety is the priority.

Can you help if I need to leave my home immediately?

Yes, if you are in immediate danger, I can help you apply for an emergency occupation order. This will require your abuser to leave the home, ensuring you and any children can stay in a safe environment. I will make sure the application is handled swiftly and effectively.

What legal options are available if children are involved?

I can help you apply for prohibited steps orders to protect your children, preventing the abuser from taking actions such as removing them from school or taking them abroad without your consent.

I can also assist with child arrangements orders to ensure your children’s safety during custody or visitation discussions.

What should I do if my abuser is controlling my finances?

Financial abuse can leave you feeling trapped, but legal help is available. I can help you apply for financial orders or injunctions to regain control of your finances and protect your assets. Whether it’s freezing accounts or ensuring you have access to funds, we’ll work together to break the control your abuser has over your financial situation.

Can you help men who are victims of domestic abuse?

Absolutely. Domestic abuse affects both men and women, and I provide legal advice and support to anyone experiencing abuse. Whether you’re facing emotional manipulation, physical harm, or controlling behaviour, I can help you take the necessary legal steps to protect yourself and secure your rights.

What happens if my abuser breaches a protection order?

Breaching a non-molestation or occupation order is a criminal offence. If your abuser violates the terms of the order, I can help you report the breach and take legal action to ensure they are held accountable. The police will be involved, and further legal steps can be taken to strengthen your protection.