Practice Direction 12J – Domestic Violence was established on the 2nd October 2017 to increase the awareness of domestic violence and the effect it has on children. Its purpose is to provide clear steps for the court to follow so that when domestic abuse is alleged or proven in a relationship and/or has affected a child, there’s a straightforward process.
The Practice Direction interprets ‘domestic abuse’ as:
- A pattern of events of controlling, threatening or coercive behaviour
- Violence or abuse of those who are aged 16+ who are family members or intimate partners, no matter their gender or sexuality
This includes but is not confined to: emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse and psychological abuse. Domestic abuse also encompasses culturally-specific forms of abuse such as forced marriage, honour-based violence, transnational marriage abandonment, dowry-related abuse and other similar forms.
Domestic violence – the impact it has on children
Domestic violence can cause children to:
- be anxious or depressed
- have problems sleeping
- have nightmares and flashbacks
- be startled easily
- have regular stomach aches
- wet the bed
- have issues at school
- regress and act younger than their age
- be aggressive or withdrawn and timid
- feel little self-worth
- take drugs, self-harm
- have eating disorders
Dodds Solicitors Family Mediation and Child & Care Proceedings
Conflict can cause distress to more than just two people, that’s why family mediation is a good way to help those experiencing a breakdown in a relationship to come to an agreement, together.
Dodd’s Solicitors’ Mediation and Collaborative Law procedures provide a listening ear and a different approach to help people settle their differences. Known to be a speedier process than going through the courts, mediation is typically less stressful and less costly, and gives both parties the opportunity to reach a well-thought-out decision regarding their children and finances.
From the very start of the process, your collaborative solicitor will sign an agreement that this matter is not to be taken to court and will hand it to you and the other party. If at any point during the process there’s a breakdown in communication, you will require a new collaborative solicitor because this method is all about helping people come to the best conclusion.
We also deal with care proceedings and child protection cases. Regardless of whether it’s a case involving social services or child custody, we’ve dealt with countless cases over the years and so we have a wealth of experience in such matters. Our solicitors strive to offer a thorough, sensitive and effective experience when representing the interests of children or parents.
We work with a wide range of social services interventions, including Adoption, Forced Marriage Protection Orders, Non-Molestation Orders and Special Guardianship Orders – so whatever your concern, turn to our experienced team today.
Please contact Dodds Solicitors on 0116 201 8566 or email enquiries@dodds-solicitors.co.uk to learn more about our Family Mediation and Child & Care Proceedings.
We provide our services to those throughout Leicester and the surrounding areas.