Criminal and Civil Law
There is no specific offence of ‘domestic violence’ under criminal law, but many forms of domestic violence are crimes, e.g. Assault, False imprisonment, Criminal damage, Harassment, Attempted murder, Rape and Sexual Assault.
Legal Advice
There are many solicitor practices in Devon some of whom specialise in supporting victims of domestic violence, or defending perpetrators of domestic violence. Whilst we are unable to recommend any one practice over another there is a free service available from the National Centre for Domestic Violence.
For more information, call 0844 8044 999 or visit www.ncdv.org.uk
Legal Aid
Legal aid may be able to help if you are a victim of domestic violence and are divorcing or separating from an abusive partner. However, you will need to provide a solicitor with evidence that you are entitled to legal aid. The Ministry of Justice can offer further guidence on legal aid.