Although the Domestic Abuse Act has been in place since 2021, it is anticipated that there are some imminent changes that will strengthen the impact this will have on abusers, victims and their families.
Solicitors in North Wales can advise on matters like the widening of the definition of domestic abuse, and the other acts it will now encompass.
One of the biggest impacts will be on children and young people and the new legal tools devised to protect them. Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders can be used to legally impose conditions and restrictions on abusers who are seeking to gain access to their offspring. These replace the previously used non-molestation orders and others.
It is anticipated that there will be stricter conditions placed on offenders and could include measures preventing them from gaining access to their children or even making any contact with them. Children could be treated as victims of domestic abuse if they have witnessed or been impacted by any of the recognised abusive behaviours.
Other changes that solicitors can offer guidance on include the introduction of financial and emotional abuse, as well as the use of coercive control in the act. There will even be measures added to protect victims post-separation, when it is especially common for abuse to continue through related matters such as finances and housing.
Speak to us today at Bennett Smith Solicitors and book an appointment if you need to discuss domestic abuse and other family law issues.