Economic Abuse Lawyers
Specialist legal advice for those facing financial abuse. Supporting your path to economic independence and financial security.
Understanding economic abuse.
The landscape of family law is changing, and cases of economic abuse are becoming much more prevalent within financial proceedings.
Economic abuse (also known as financial abuse) is a form of domestic abuse. It constitutes any form of behaviour that has a substantially adverse effect on a victim’s ability to acquire, use or maintain money or other property or to obtain goods and services. It can have lifelong effects and diminish feelings of security and/confidence in victim survivors.
Common examples can include being financially cut off or unreasonably curtailed and unable to access resources or sufficient resources to meet interim living expenditure and to pay legal fees.
Other, more subtle examples of abuse can include deliberate delay by one party to the proceedings in providing financial disclosure, so as to enable advice to be given. Non-compliance with directions for interim funding applications or court orders can also perpetuate abuse.
Legal support for victims of economic abuse.
If you are experiencing economic abuse, you are not alone. Our expert family law solicitors are vastly experienced in dealing with such cases and helping you to get back on an equal footing.
Depending on the circumstances of your cases and if we are unable to resolve matters with your spouse, we can support you in making appropriate applications to the Court. which initially will be on an interim basis. This may include funds for living expenditure (Maintenance Pending Suit) and/or contributions towards payment of your legal fees (Legal Services Payment Orders).
We can also guide you on how to plead such abuse in financial disclosure and discuss with you the overall impact it may have on your financial matter.
It is important to act quickly if you are facing economic abuse, delay can make the situation and our ability to resolve it more difficult.
It can be very daunting but please do feel comfortable to share any concerns you have in the first meeting with one of our team, we can then help you decide what action to take and help you on the road to independence.
Call us on 020 3993 2668 or
Meet our family solicitors
Immediate family law support when it matters most.
Economic abuse can create significant stress and uncertainty about what to do next.
Whether you need urgent protection, legal advice or support with financial control issues, we prioritise your safety and the protection of your financial rights.
Our specialist team provides expert guidance and dedicated support at every stage, ensuring you are not alone in this challenging time.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Non-Molestation Order and who can apply for it?
A Non-Molestation Order is a protective injunction used to prevent an individual from harassing, intimidating or threatening a victim or their children. Anyone experiencing abuse from a partner, ex-partner or family member can apply. This order can prohibit contact or any form of abuse to safeguard the victim.
What is an Emergency Protection Order and when is it necessary?
An Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is a legal measure that grants temporary protection to a child who is at risk of harm or abuse. It allows a child to be removed from their current environment or restricts certain individuals from contacting the child. An EPO is necessary in situations where a child’s safety is immediately threatened, and urgent intervention is required.
How quickly can an Emergency Protection Order be obtained?
Emergency Protection Orders can be obtained very quickly, often within hours if there is an imminent risk to the child’s welfare. The court prioritises these cases, and immediate evidence of danger to the child must be presented for the order to be granted.
How long does a Non-Molestation Order last and can it be extended?
A Non-Molestation Order typically lasts for a specified period, such as six months or one year, but it can be extended if there is still a risk of harm. The court will review the circumstances and decide on the necessity of an extension.
What is an Occupation Order and what protection does it offer?
An Occupation Order determines who can live in or return to a family home. It can exclude an abuser from the property entirely or regulate who occupies different areas of the home. Occupation Orders can provide legal protection and a safe living environment.
Under what circumstances can I apply for an Occupation Order?
You can apply for an Occupation Order if you are experiencing domestic abuse or threats in your home. The court considers factors like the housing needs of both parties, the conduct of the abuser and the welfare of any children involved when making a decision.
What is financial abuse and how can the law protect me?
Financial abuse involves controlling a person’s access to financial resources, making them financially dependent on the abuser. This can include restricting spending, taking control of bank accounts or preventing a person from earning an income. Legal protection can come in the form of restraining orders, financial relief measures or specific protective orders.
What is economic abuse and how does it differ from financial abuse?
Economic abuse is a form of domestic abuse that includes not only financial control but also interference with economic resources like employment, housing or education. While financial abuse focuses on controlling money, economic abuse covers broader economic stability, such as sabotaging employment opportunities or controlling property.
Contact us
Arrange a confidential chat with one of our expert family law solicitors today.
Please note we cannot offer legal aid.