Domestic abuse incorporates various elements of abuse, not just physical but emotional abuse such as bullying and controlling behaviour.  Harassment incorporates various aspects of behaviour that is unacceptable and which causes the victim distress.

Domestic abuse varies in frequency and intensity and can often be witnessed by children. Even if the children are not directly assaulted, witnessing domestic abuse can cause them emotional distress which could have a long lasting effect on them.  A victim of domestic violence, abuse or harassment can lose all confidence.

With the help of the Family Department at Hewitts, the Courts can offer immediate protection in the event of an emergency.  They can make injunctions or orders for the protection of a victim and their children (if appropriate); they can make orders with regard to the occupation of a property that may be to exclude a person from the property and/or a certain area around it.  The Court can attach a Power of Arrest so if the orders are breached then the person breaching the order can be immediately arrested and brought before the Court.  They can be fined, or imprisoned or both for breach of an injunction/order.