Domestic Violence

Domestic violence

Our Family lawyers are currently offering a free, initial telephone consultation. You can start the process today by clicking here.

Why would someone need this service?

Domestic violence is an extremely sensitive issue and it can often be difficult to know where or whom to turn to to seek help. Those who are victims of domestic violence may feel scared, lack confidence and self esteem and believe the problem is their fault. They may also have fears for the safety of their children.

It is not unusual for victims of domestic violence to fear what will happen if they tell someone else about the abuse. Those accused of domestic violence may themselves feel victimised if they have not actually done what they are accused of or if the violence is from both sides. No matter what your position, Grant Saw is able to provide sensitive help to you.

How does the process work?

A family court gives domestic violence cases priority over other family disputes. This means that if the violence is against you, we will be able to request a prompt Court hearing in order to obtain necessary Court Orders to protect you. Often a court will make an Order to provide some immediate protection.

In order to proceed you will need to file a statement (which Grant Saw will be able to prepare for you) detailing the history of what has happened and why you need the Order which you are asking for.

How long does it take?

If clients need immediate protection from serious domestic violence, there are emergency steps which Grant Saw can take to apply for Court Orders straightaway. Hearings can be arranged extremely quickly; if the violence is continuing and serious, they may be held within a day or two. If there is more time to deal with the case, there may be a week or two before the hearing.

Is it expensive? How do the costings work?

Your first consultation with us will be for a fixed fee of £100 + VAT for a face-to-face consultation of up to one hour. When we have established the level of service that is required based on your personal circumstances, we will provide you with a estimate for our acting for you from that point onwards.

The position which your partner takes and whether the application will be opposed will of course be particularly important in determining how much work is necessary in replying and therefore this will affect the level of charges.

What should people consider before calling?

To ensure that the matter proceeds as quickly as possible, clients should identify whom they would ask to provide background evidence in the case to assist them. Often, in domestic violence cases, there will be very few, if any, witnesses to the violence itself, which makes medical evidence particularly important.

Victims should make a list of the names and contact numbers of any medical professionals who have examined them during hospital visits necessitated by the violence, in order that they can provide evidence regarding the injuries sustained. Other helpful evidence may include photographs of the injuries and contact details of anyone that the victim has talked to about the violence.

Why are Grant Saw the best people for the job?

Within the Grant Saw family department, we have very experienced and sensitive lawyers who are dedicated to providing their clients with the best possible advice. Clients are able to choose whether they wish to be seen by either a male or female lawyer. We want clients to feel as comfortable as possible when discussing their individual situation, which is particularly important in cases of this type.

For more information or to discuss a specific family matter, please email family@grantsaw.co.uk or contact the team on 020 8858 6971 today.

We are currently offering a free, initial telephone consultation. Feel free to contact us or leave your details here and a member of the team will contact you at a time that suits.