Legal Options

Your Legal Rights:

You have the right to be protected under the law if you are a victim of violence. Your options can include criminal law (through the Police) or civil law (Through a solicitor):

Civil Law (aimed at protection of the victim):

Civil orders (or injunctions) can be used to keep you safe by placing legal restrictions on your partner to prevent or limit violence. This may involve an occupation order which excludes your partner from the property; non-molestation orders which prevent your partner from assaulting you or your children.

Criminal Law (aimed at punishment of the offender):

If you contact the police they will make the decision whether to arrest the offender or not. The Crown Prosecution Service will then make a decision whether to prosecute.

If your partner is arrested and released on bail there is usually conditions attached to the bail to prohibit communication with you and to stay away from you.

The police have a Community Safety Unit - a specialist unit based in Harrow with police officers dealing specifically with domestic violence. It is not a 24 hour emergency service. The Community Safety Unit will also follow up any crimes or incidents you have reported.

Criminal Injuries Compensation:

You may be able to make a claim for compensation for the violence you have experienced. For details contact Victim Support and / or Citizens Advice Bureau.

Your Solicitor will also be able to give you information and assist you with making a claim. They will often take a small percentage of any awards you have made as payment. Check this with your solicitor in advance.

Free Legal Advice:

The Harrow Women's Centre offers 15 minutes of free legal advice sessions to women by trained solicitors on Wednesdays from 14:00 - 15:00 by appointment only.

Domestic Violence is a crime, don't suffer in silence. Talk to a Harrow Independent Domestic Violence Advisor to get help and support.

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