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I Want to Get Divorced, but Where Do I Star...
When a relationship comes to an end, it can be difficult to know what comes next - what are the most important thin...
Domestic Violence.
Domestic Abuse & Domestic Violence Solicitors.
Experiencing domestic violence can be frightening, isolating and deeply distressing.
Whether you are facing physical violence, coercive control, emotional or psychological abuse, financial restriction, sexual abuse or ongoing intimidation, the impact can affect every aspect of your life. You may feel uncertain about your rights, concerned for your safety, or worried about how to protect your children. Seeking legal advice from Domestic Violence Solicitors at such a time can feel daunting, but taking that first step can be crucial in restoring your sense of security and control.
At Lanyon Bowdler, our specialist Family Law Solicitors have extensive experience advising and representing individuals affected by domestic violence across Shropshire, Herefordshire, North Wales and beyond. We regularly act in urgent cases involving protective injunctions, child arrangements and contested allegations. Recognised by leading legal directories for the strength of our family law practice, our team combines technical expertise with a calm, supportive and highly discreet approach.
Domestic violence, referred to in modern legislation as domestic abuse, encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviours between people who are personally connected, including spouses, former partners, cohabitees and family members. The law provides robust protections for those at risk, and we are here to guide you carefully through the available options. We will listen without judgment, explain your rights clearly, and take swift action where necessary to help safeguard you and your family.
Domestic Violence Injunctions Available
If you are experiencing domestic violence, the court has the power to grant protective injunctions designed to prevent further abuse and provide immediate reassurance. Our Domestic Violence Solicitors will explain the legal options available and advise you on the most appropriate course of action for your circumstances.
Injunctions available to you inlude:
- A Non-Molestation Order: this prohibits an individual from molesting you or any relevant child. Molestation covers all forms of abusive behaviour, including violence, threats, harassment, intimidation and unwanted contact. Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence and can result in immediate arrest, as well as prosecution for the breach itself and any related offences.
- An Occupation Order: this regulates who is entitled to live in the family home. In certain cases, the court can require the abusive party to leave the property and may also make additional directions relating to the payment of rent, mortgage instalments or household bills.
Where there is an immediate risk of harm, applications can be made urgently and, where necessary, without notice to the respondent. Not all cases require a contested hearing; some injunction proceedings can be concluded by agreement or by undertakings given to the court, sometimes without formal admissions being made.
Legal aid may be available to victims of domestic violence, subject to eligibility. We also recognise that court proceedings are not always required. Depending on the situation, alternative steps such as solicitor warning letters, police remedies including Domestic Abuse Protection Notices or Orders, or referrals to specialist support services may be appropriate.
Our priority is to ensure you understand your options clearly and to take swift, proportionate action to protect you and your family.
Our Expertise in Respect of Domestic Abuse
We pride ourselves on being a friendly and approachable law firm, and our Domestic Abuse Lawyers understand that these cases require a sympathetic, discreet and practical approach. Contact Lanyon Bowdler today.
Victims of domestic abuse may also benefit from the following information:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help
Podcast
Listen to an episode of The Legal Lounge where two of our lawyers are discussing what constitutes domestic abuse and what support is available.
Why Lanyon Bowdler?
Our Domestic Violence Solicitors will provide clear and simple legal advice, keeping the relationship strictly on your terms and using family law to ensure you and your family are protected from any further abuse.
The cost of legal advice should not be a barrier to you seeking our support, so Lanyon Bowdler offers a range of price options, including fixed fees and service level guarantees.
Your Domestic Abuse questions answered
Do I have to the police before contacting a Domestic Violence Solicitor?
No. You do not need to involve the police before seeking legal advice. While police involvement can sometimes strengthen evidence, it is not a requirement for applying to the Family Court for protective orders. A solicitor can advise you on your options confidentially and without committing you to any immediate action.
How long does it take to obtain a Non-Molestation Order?
In urgent cases, the court can deal with applications very quickly, sometimes within a matter of days. Where there is immediate risk, applications can be made without notice to the other party. The exact timescale will depend on the circumstances, but urgent protection is often available faster than many people expect.
What happens if a Non-Molestation Order is breached?
Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence. The police have the power to arrest the individual immediately if they believe the order has been breached. The person responsible may face criminal charges in addition to any further legal consequences.
If you believe an order has been breached, it is important to contact the police straight away and seek further legal advice.
Do I need evidence to apply for a domestic violence injunction?
The court will require evidence to support your application, but this does not always mean medical reports or police convictions. Evidence may include text messages, emails, photographs, witness statements or a detailed account of events.
We will help you prepare a clear and thorough statement so the court understands the full context of the domestic violence you have experienced.
Can domestic violence affect child arrangements?
Yes. The court treats allegations of domestic violence very seriously when deciding child arrangements. The safety and welfare of children is always the court’s primary concern. Where domestic violence is raised, the court may hold a fact-finding hearing to determine what has occurred before making decisions about contact.
We regularly advise and represent clients where domestic violence allegations intersect with children proceedings, ensuring that your position is carefully and properly presented.
When should I contact Domestic Violence Solicitors?
You should contact Domestic Violence Solicitors as soon as you feel unsafe, threatened or concerned about your wellbeing. Early legal advice can help you understand your options, secure protective court orders if necessary, and take practical steps to safeguard yourself and your children. Seeking advice does not commit you to immediate court action, but it does ensure you are fully informed about your rights.
How fast can I get an injunction?
If you are at immediate risk of harm, it is often possible to obtain an injunction very quickly. In urgent domestic violence cases, the court can consider applications within a matter of days and, in some circumstances, on the same day they are submitted. Where there is a serious risk to your safety or that of your children, an application can be made “without notice”, meaning your partner is not informed in advance of the hearing.
The exact timescale will depend on the urgency of your situation and the court’s availability, but protective orders are designed to provide swift reassurance and security. We will assess your circumstances promptly and take immediate steps where urgent protection is required.
Will my partner find out I contacted a Domestic Abuse Lawyer?
No. Simply contacting a Domestic Abuse Lawyer for advice is completely confidential. Your partner will not be informed that you have sought legal advice. Conversations with your solicitor are private, and we will always discuss safe methods of communication with you at the outset.
If you decide to proceed with a court application, your partner will usually need to be formally served with the legal documents. However, in urgent situations where informing them in advance could increase the risk to you, the court can deal with applications without notice. We will carefully explain each step so that you feel fully informed and in control of how the matter progresses.
Your safety and confidentiality are our priority at all times.
Testimonials
What our clients say.
At what was a challenging time for me, I was guided calmly through a process I knew nothing of.
Mark
via ReviewSolicitors
Staci has been fantastic in dealing with my divorce and financial matter. She was approachable and supportive throughout a personally challenging time, and her communication and clarity was always excellent. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Staci, or Lanyon Bowdler.
Steph
via ReviewSolicitors
I found the service and advice given regarding my matter to be professional and appropriate and my matter was brought to a very swift and satisfactory conclusion. I always felt my Solicitor really had my best interests at heart, I had every confidence.
Emma
via ReviewSolicitors
From the first contact, the team at Lanyon Bowdler gave a fast & efficient service. They were very friendly & gave me the confidence that I had found the right solicitors. The advice given & the fast responses were beyond my expectations. The matter was resolved in no time at all.
Martyn
via ReviewSolicitors
After the solicitor firm I was using for my divorce couldn’t get it settled in two years, I transferred to Lanyon Bowdler. Within seven months they got it completely finished and over with. They proactively pushed to get my case closed and were supportive throughout. Absolutely worthy to be called the best.
Simon
via ReviewSolicitors
Lanyon Bowdler managed my case very professionally and were very helpful during a difficult and challenging case both in a professional and personal capacity. I would highly recommend Lanyon Bowdler for all legal matters and would definitely engage in the future if the need arises.
Timothy
via ReviewSolicitors
I would not hesitate to recommend LB Solicitors to anyone needing guidance and representation for family law or divorce proceedings. My solicitor was thorough and diligent, balancing professional rigour with fairness, reasonableness and sensitivity. I feel this approach helped me to obtain a satisfactory settlement avoiding costly and unnecessary conflict.
Jon
via ReviewSolicitors
Since dealing with Lanyon Bowdler they have been diligent, efficient and at all times very helpful along with being structured in dealing with matters, fees and clarity on all levels. Thank you.
Michael
via ReviewSolicitors
I was clearly informed of progress step by step. The service you provided was very good.
Peter Weston
Shrewsbury
All work carried out effectively and efficiently.
Hubert Jones
via ReviewSolicitors
An excellent service with solicitors that you can talk to and who give you a clear understanding of all necessary legal implications and interpretations.
Eric
via ReviewSolicitors
From start to finish we had excellent service. Friendly, approachable and professional.
Carl Gittins
via ReviewSolicitors
Used Lanyon Bowdler for conveyancing and for legal advice – both solicitors I worked with were effective and professional. Law firm was fast and responsive to queries and clear pricing.
Samantha
via ReviewSolicitors
Very clear, concise advice and guidance, easy to understand.
Ian Jamieson
Telford
Good service provided throughout with clear communication throughout with all options explored.
Lee
I was impressed with the forensic approach to identifying, securing, assessing and presenting evidence over the two years that it took to finally resolve the issue.
Timothy
via ReviewSolicitors
I can thoroughly recommend the highly professional and supportive service received over the last few months.
Heather
via ReviewSolicitors
Responsive, supportive, approachable, clear and empathetic.
Lisa Thacker
Professional and prompt communication. Supportive and client focused.
Lisa Thacker
Jennifer M Whittall Ltd
Whenever I have had need to contact Lanyon Bowdler I have always received a fast, concise and friendly response.
Lee Mortimer
UK Case Management
Definitely would use Lanyon Bowdler again if I need the use of a solicitor.
Mark Bowkett
via ReviewSolicitors
Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.
Tim
via ReviewSolicitors
We were particularly impressed with the quality of work, the speed and excellent communication.
Allenby Douglas Ltd
Oswestry
Very friendly and approachable. Very good advice
Ivor Brown
via ReviewSolicitors
Great Service; Lanyon Bowdler were excellent from the outset. Straightforward and easy process. I just sat back and waited.
Paul Rowe
via ReviewSolicitors
Everything has been professional, efficient and courteous throughout and we are very pleased, both with the service and with the eventual outcome of our case. Everything was first class and exceeded our expectations. Thank you again for providing such splendid service. It is really appreciated.
Mr N J & Dr S J Browne
Llanfyllin
Everything has been dealt with very efficiently in a very kind and professional manner.
Kathryn
via ReviewSolicitors
Contact Our Domestic Violence Solicitors
If you are experiencing domestic violence, you do not have to face it alone. Reaching out for legal advice can feel overwhelming, but taking that first step can help you regain control and protect yourself and your family.
Our specialist Domestic Violence Solicitors are approachable, discreet and highly experienced in handling urgent and sensitive situations. We understand the courage it takes to seek help, and we will respond with compassion and professionalism. We will listen carefully to your concerns, explain your options in clear and straightforward terms, and act swiftly where protection is needed to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
We have offices in Shrewsbury, Bromyard, Conwy, Hereford, Ludlow, Oswestry and Telford, so are able to act for clients as Domestic Violence Solicitors in Shropshire, Herefordshire, Mid and North Wales and across the Midlands. Our expertise makes us the leading choice for Domestic Abuse Lawyers in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Worcester. As a leading full-service law firm in Wales, we can represent you wherever you live in England or Wales.
Your safety and confidentiality are our priority at all times. Whether you require immediate court protection, advice about injunctions, or simply want to understand your legal position, we are here to support you with clear, practical guidance.
Please contact our Family Law team for a confidential conversation about how we can help. If your situation is urgent, let us know when you call so we can prioritise your case without delay.
Our people
Meet the team.
Knowledge
Domestic Violence Articles & Podcasts.
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