Understanding Coercive Control: Legal Support and Guidance
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a severe form of domestic abuse, characterized by isolating and controlling victims. It often involves behaviors such as gaslighting, where the abuser manipulates the victim into doubting their own reality, further isolating and controlling them.
Examples of Coercive Control
Victims of coercive control may find it difficult to recognize the signs, as the intensity of control usually builds gradually. Common behaviors include:
- Isolating the victim from loved ones and activities they once enjoyed
- Monitoring the victim’s behavior and daily activities
- Verbal abuse, including name-calling
- Undermining the victim’s self-worth
- Controlling the victim’s finances
- Damaging or threatening to damage personal property
- Threatening harm to the victim or their children
- Using threats of suicide to prevent the victim from leaving
- Forcing the victim into criminal activities
- Threatening legal action or to publish personal information
Signs of Coercive Control
Coercive control often manifests through partners who constantly question your actions or movements. This behavior escalates to isolating you from your support network, making you feel monitored and fearful of repercussions if you don’t comply with their demands.
Coercive Control in Relationships
In a coercive relationship, your partner tries to dominate your behavior, actions, and relationships. This can overlap with other forms of abuse, both physical and psychological. The goal is to isolate the victim, making it harder for them to seek help or leave the relationship. Coercive control is legally defined by its serious impact on the victim’s life.
What is Coercive Behavior?
Coercive behavior is a type of domestic abuse that does not necessarily involve physical violence. Instead, it involves isolating the victim from their support network and using threats, intimidation, and humiliation to maintain control.
How to Prove Coercive Control
In legal settings, coercive control is often proven by patterns of behavior designed to harm the victim. This can include control over finances, preventing job opportunities, or isolating the victim from their social network. Keeping evidence of these behaviors and logging incidents is crucial. Friends and family can also provide valuable testimony.
How to Report Coercive Control
Coercive control is a criminal offense. Report it to the police, who may issue a warning or arrest the abuser. If there is sufficient evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will investigate further. Convicted abusers can face prison time, fines, or both. You may also obtain a court order to protect yourself, which can be enforced even if the abuser is acquitted.
Seeking Legal Help
At National Legal Service, our team of experienced family law solicitors specializes in helping victims of coercive control. We can assist in applying for protective orders, such as non-molestation orders, and provide guidance on your legal options. Legal aid may be available to help cover the costs of representation.
Is Coercive Control a Crime?
Yes, coercive control is a crime punishable by law. Courts will assess whether the abuser’s behavior has had a serious impact on the victim, such as causing fear of violence, significant distress, or changes in daily activities. If you’re experiencing coercive control, speak to our experienced family solicitors for confidential advice.
Contact Our Specialist Solicitors
If you are in a relationship involving coercive control, contact National Legal Service. Our dedicated solicitors are here to provide expert legal support and help you secure the protection you need. Don’t delay in seeking advice—reach out to us today for confidential assistance.
