Domestic Abuse During Major Sporting Events
Whether you are football fan or not, you may have found yourself unable to escape World Cup Fever. While many families will come together to celebrate the beautiful game, prominent Women’s and Domestic Abuse Charities are raising concerns about the peak in domestic abuse that such tournaments can bring.
Statistics suggest that incidents of domestic violence increase during major sporting events, the most common example being when England’s men’s football team play in a major tournament and this can increase in intensity the higher the stakes become for the team on the pitch.
Sadly, this is incredibly common, and if you are experiencing abuse in your relationship, you are far from being alone: research suggests that as many as one in four women and one in eight men will experience it at some point.
The thought of ending any relationship can be incredibly daunting. There are often a number of legal issues that need to be addressed and financial arrangements made, as well as those for the children. Add into that mix the need to be protected from an abusive partner, and it can feel like a lot to deal with in one go.
As well as guiding you through the legal process of divorce and separation, at Warners, we will be there to provide practical advice too. We are connected with a wide range of support services and can introduce you to people who will help you to find a safe place to stay, if required, find out if you are eligible for any state benefits or legal aid.
An application for divorce can be made without needing to prove or even state that any abuse has taken place, which can take the pressure off the entire process, and it is incredibly unlikely that you will have to attend at court in order to obtain a divorce.
If you require the protection of an injunction, then we can assist you with making this application to court, and it is possible to ask the court for an order that you stay in the family home while your partner is made to find alternative accommodation. This can then allow time to resolve any financial issues, and to make safe and realistic arrangements for the children. We can also talk you through all the options that are available in respect of the children, and how to protect your own wellbeing during times when they visit your partner.
One thing to bear in mind is a common misconception that if your spouse has behaved unreasonably during your marriage they will be penalised when it comes to the division of the matrimonial assets. The way that the current legislation is drafted and the case law is interpreted by judges means that this is generally not the case, and it is only in rare and extreme cases will a court will look at an adjustment of matrimonial assets based on the conduct of your spouse.
The UK government and wider family justice system are however increasingly recognising that court proceedings can be misused as a continuing form of domestic abuse, with some perpetrators using repeated applications and litigation to maintain control after separation. In response, reforms are being developed to better protect survivors, reduce re-traumatisation, and ensure that allegations of abuse are properly identified and addressed within family court proceedings. This reflects a wider shift toward a more trauma-informed and child-focused approach, where the legal system is seen not only as a forum for resolving disputes, but also as a place where ongoing patterns of abuse must be actively prevented.
Facing abuse from the person that is meant to love you most commonly leads to a lack of confidence and self-doubt, but the law recognises the need to protect and help victims, and the courts are investing more in ensuring victims of domestic violence are given much needed support.
At Warners understand how distressing and complex domestic abuse cases can be, particularly where legal proceedings are being used to prolong control or cause further harm. Our team has a deep understanding of the issues that survivors often face, alongside a thorough knowledge of the law and the practical steps available to protect those affected. We approach every case with care, sensitivity and professionalism, offering clear guidance and compassionate support to help victims feel heard, protected and empowered to move forward.
For further information, please contact Julie Dann in the family law team on 01732 747900 or email [email protected].
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published. We do not accept responsibility or liability for any actions taken based on the information in this article.
