The Domestic Abuse Act (2021) was passed at the end of May 2021. Its provisions are likely to come into effect later this year or next year.
For the first time, the Act provides a definition of domestic abuse which does not only focus upon the traditional view of physical abuse, but also covers controlling or coercive behaviour, economic abuse and psychological, emotional or other abuse.
“Domestic abuse is an abhorrent crime perpetrated on victims and their families by those who should love and care for them. This landmark Bill will help transform the response to domestic abuse, helping to prevent offending, protect victims and ensure they have the support they need.”
Victoria Atkins MP, Minister for Safeguarding
The Government statistics state that there are 2.3 million victims of domestic abuse each year aged between 16 – 74. It is therefore expected that this new bill will finally provide some form of relief to victims of domestic abuse.
The Act will introduce new domestic abuse protection notices and orders which can be given by the police and provide victims with immediate protection from abusers.
Moreover, it will provide greater protection to victims in court proceedings and will prevent alleged abusers from being able to directly cross examine their victims at court hearings.
We will provide you with a further update as soon as more information is available, but in the meantime please do not hesitate to contact any of our solicitors should you require further assistance in relation to domestic abuse.
