Government statistics reveal a record number of family court applications to stop domestic violence

The Ministry of Justice released statistics that show a steep increase in the number of domestic violence remedy order applications between July and September of this year.

Family courts are able to grant non-molestation and occupation orders, with a view to preventing domestic violence.

Between July and September 2020, 9,944 applications were made for a remedy order. This was an increase of 26% on the same period in 2019. It was also the the highest quarterly number of applications since the statistical reports began.

Law Society president David Greene said the steep rise in applications was ‘deeply disturbing’.

The Law Society President continued:

‘The Covid-19 lockdown is without doubt a dangerous time for domestic abuse victims and now, more than ever, we must ensure they are able to access help and support. Making non-means tested legal aid available for domestic abuse cases would give victims the legal support and access to justice they so desperately need’. You can read the report and reaction to the statistics in The Law Gazette, accessible through this link.

If you are experiencing domestic violence and need help, you can contact Refuge through this link.

You can contact the National Domestic Abuse HelplineCall, 24-hours a day, for free and in confidence on 0808 2000 247

If you are in an emergency, please call 999.