Senior Partner Marilyn Stowe’s latest article in the Solicitors Journal concentrates on domestic violence. Mrs Stowe discusses how attitudes towards domestic abuse have changed over the years from the effects of physical abuse to the less obvious signs of verbal abuse. In recent years, behaviour such as coercion and intimidation officially became classified as domestic violence under section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015.
Mrs Stowe draws attention to the fact that it is not always women who are the victims of domestic abuse. Although it is less common, men can also be victims. She points out that the people may not always be as vulnerable as they may seem.
Marilyn concludes by stating that “Domestic abuse and violence should never be tolerated” but raises concerns that this legislation may not be the best answer.