Domestic Violence

Under the Domestic Violence Act 1994 (DVA), domestic violence is abuse by one family member against another. It covers physical, emotional, psychological and financial abuse.

It is a criminal offence. It is also a ground for asking the court for a protection order.

Why it matters: abuse is not only hitting. If you are being controlled, threatened or cut off from money, the law can still protect you, and your safety comes before any divorce step.