New Domestic Abuse Measures have now entered into force in trial areas as part of a pilot scheme, including Greater Manchester and three London Boroughs (Croydon, Sutton and Bromley).
Domestic Abuse Protection Notices
These are notices that can be issued by the police immediately following an incident of abuse, providing the victim with immediate protection and giving the police sufficient time to apply for a Domestic Abuse Protection Order that will allow for longer term protection.
Domestic Abuse Protection Orders
These new orders have no time restrictions, unlike existing protective orders, which means that victims are offered protection for as long as necessary to keep them safe. Breaching this order constitutes a criminal offence which is punishable for up to five years in prison.
Importantly, friends and family members of victims can apply on their behalf, as well as the police and victims themselves.
Similarly to previous orders, they can include exclusion zones which prevent perpetrators from entering certain areas or attending a specific address. However, they can also include positive requirements such as attending perpetrator programmes.
The orders are designed to bring together the positive elements of existing orders into one, cover all forms of domestic abuse and increase the level of protection for victims. It is hoped that the pilot is successful and can be rolled out across other areas in the country.
The Home Office guidance (which provides further information on the measures and how to apply for them) can be accessed here: Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) – GOV.UK
If you are a victim of domestic violence there is also wide support available. This includes but is not limited to the following services:
Refuge (Refuge, the largest UK domestic abuse organisation for women)
Women’s Aid (Domestic abuse services – Women’s Aid)
Changing Pathways (Changing Pathways – Changing Pathways)
Next Chapter (Next Chapter | A future without domestic abuse)
If you are in need of protection through either a non-molestation order or occupation order, or you feel that domestic violence is having an impact on your children, then please get in touch to obtain legal advice.
This post was written by Elle MacDonald.
Elle Macdonald is a solicitor in the family department representing parents and extended family members in care proceedings and private law children proceedings. Elle also has experience with domestic abuse and divorce and finance matters. Elle is contactable on 01268 240400 and emacdonald@anthonyking.co.uk .