Eddison Cogan Lawyers
Family & Commercial Law Specialists
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Domestic Abuse
Clear guidance in situations that are often difficult to define and even harder to navigate.
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Domestic abuse
Domestic abuse can take many forms within personal relationships. For some, it involves physical violence. For others, it is experienced as a pattern of controlling or psychologically harmful behaviour that develops over time.
Both are recognised in law, and both can have a profound impact.
At Eddison Cogan Lawyers, we approach these situations with care, clarity and discretion. Our role is to help you understand your position, consider your options, and take practical steps where needed.
What is domestic abuse?
Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, domestic abuse includes a wide range of behaviours between people who are personally connected.
This can include:
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Physical or sexual abuse
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Emotional or psychological harm
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Controlling or coercive behaviour
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Economic or financial abuse
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Threatening, intimidating or harassing conduct
The definition is intentionally broad. It reflects the reality that abuse may involve a single serious incident, or a pattern of behaviour over time.
Recognising the impact of physical abuse
Where domestic abuse involves physical violence, the impact can be immediate and serious. It may also be accompanied by fear, uncertainty, or practical barriers that make it difficult to leave or seek help.
People in this situation may be concerned about:
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Personal safety or escalation of behaviour
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The safety and stability of children
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Financial dependence or housing
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How and when it is safe to take action
The law provides mechanisms for protection, including urgent court orders where necessary. Taking advice can help you understand how these protections apply to your circumstances and how they can be put in place safely.
Coercive control and patterns of behaviour
Domestic abuse is not always visible. A key aspect of modern law is the recognition of coercive or controlling behaviour.
This involves patterns of behaviour that are intended to dominate, isolate or undermine another person.
Examples can include:
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Restricting contact with friends, family or support networks
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Monitoring communications or movements
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Limiting access to money or resources
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Creating dependency or reducing independence
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Using threats, pressure or intimidation
Coercive control is recognised as a criminal offence under the Serious Crime Act 2015. It is also highly relevant in family law, particularly where it affects decision-making, negotiation, or the welfare of children.
How these issues arise in family law matters
Concerns about domestic abuse may arise in a range of situations, including:
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Separation or divorce
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Child arrangements and parental responsibility
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Financial discussions following relationship breakdown
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Situations where one person feels unable to negotiate freely
In some cases, the presence of abuse or controlling behaviour changes how matters need to be handled. Direct negotiation may not be appropriate, and additional safeguards may be required.
In many cases, taking the first step is not about making immediate decisions, but about understanding what is possible.
Where arrangements are more complex, it becomes especially important to approach matters in a clear and structured way.
How we can help
We provide clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.
This may include:
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Protective orders, such as non-molestation or occupation orders
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Urgent applications, where immediate protection is required
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Advice within divorce or separation proceedings
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Guidance on child arrangements, where safety is a concern
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Support in managing communication and negotiation, where there is an imbalance of power
Where appropriate, we can help structure matters so that communication and decision-making take place in a safer and more controlled way.
A measured and supportive approach
Situations involving domestic abuse require careful handling. Some matters need immediate legal protection. Others require a more gradual and structured approach.
We focus on:
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Understanding the dynamics of your situation
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Explaining your options clearly
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Helping you move forward at a pace that feels manageable
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Taking firm action where protection is needed
Where court involvement becomes necessary, we ensure your position is properly understood and robustly represented.
Questions people often ask
Does domestic abuse have to be physical?
No. Domestic abuse includes a wide range of behaviours, including emotional, psychological, financial and controlling behaviour. The law recognises that harm within a relationship is not limited to physical violence.
What is coercive control?
Coercive control refers to a pattern of behaviour used to control, isolate or undermine another person. This may include restricting contact with others, monitoring activity, limiting access to money, or creating dependency. It is recognised in both criminal law and family law.
I’m not sure if my situation counts as abuse - can I still seek advice?
Yes. Many people are uncertain about how to describe their situation. You do not need to reach a clear conclusion before seeking advice. It can be helpful simply to understand how the law may apply to your circumstances.
What legal protection is available if I feel unsafe?
The court can make protective orders, including non-molestation orders and occupation orders. In urgent situations, these can sometimes be made quickly to provide immediate protection.
Will domestic abuse affect arrangements for children?
Yes. The court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child. Any form of abuse, including coercive or controlling behaviour, is taken into account when decisions are made.
Do I have to confront the other person directly?
Not necessarily. In situations involving abuse or controlling behaviour, direct communication may not be appropriate. Legal processes and protective measures can be structured to reduce or manage contact.
Is it possible to take things step by step?
Yes. In many cases, the first step is simply understanding your options. Decisions can then be made gradually, in a way that feels safe and manageable.
Discussing your situation
If you have concerns about behaviour within a relationship - whether physical, controlling, or difficult to define - it can be helpful to talk things through in a structured and confidential setting.
Eddison Cogan Lawyers can assist in clarifying your position and the options available to you.
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Discussing your situation