TAYLOR&EMMET URGES WIDER DISCUSSION ON ABUSE

Family law experts at Sheffield solicitors, Taylor&Emmet, are welcoming government plans to tackle domestic violence, but they would like to see wider consultation.

Carol Marsh, Taylor&Emmet’s domestic violence specialist, said: “We are in support of any initiative that protects actual or potential victims of domestic violence.

“We approve wholeheartedly of canvassing public opinion, but we would urge the government to extend its consultation further, to take into account the views of domestic violence victims, police officers, support organisations and family solicitors.”

The views of women in 40 towns and cities across the country will be canvassed about the government’s proposals to provide better ways to share information and to give more powers to the victims of domestic abuse. For example, to ban offenders from the family home for up to 14 days.

Carol added: “Giving the court the power to ban offenders from the home is attractive in theory, as it buys the victim time to make legal and practical arrangements for themselves and any children. However, there is a fine balance to achieve – those accused of domestic violence are not always guilty.”

Taylor&Emmet’s family department helps victims of domestic violence make emergency applications to the courts for injunction proceedings. These can serve to keep an offender away from the victim for much longer than the 14 days proposed in the government consultation and legal aid is usually available in appropriate cases.

The firm has also installed a dedicated helpline – 0114 218 4040 – for local people seeking emergency advice about cases of domestic abuse and it is offering free initial appointments at its Arundel Gate headquarters, to victims needing essential legal advice.

Taylor&Emmet now has one of the largest family law departments in the city and is one of only a few firms making an ongoing commitment to legal aid-based work. For further information telephone (0114) 218 4000 or visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk

PICTURE CAPTION: Carol Marsh, Taylor&Emmet's domestic violence specialist.

Issued: 17.3.2009

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