Domestic Violence in the News

With domestic violence rising sharply in this country, figures released this month show a 15.5% increase in the number of victims being abused at home.

Domestic violence kills two women every week and these shocking statistics demonstrate just how important reporting the crime to the police is since abuse usually thrives on secrecy.

Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, Metropolitan Police Commissioner, speaking at City Hall to Mayor of London Boris Johnson, confirmed that in the final quarter of 2013 there was a 5.1% increase in cases of domestic violence attacks with injuries.

Discussing the findings, the commissioner admitted that the rise in the number of cases may simply be due to increased reporting.  He added, "We are not going to say it's not something we are concerned about, but it's too early to say it's a trend."

Reportedly, the Christmas period could also have impacted on the figures as domestic situations flare as families are spending more time together over the holidays.

Ten percent of calls to emergency services come as a result of domestic violence and as MP's are backing a tough new US style law, if it is passed, could see domestic abuse becoming a specific crime which carries a 14 year prison sentence. 

Currently, domestic abuse is not categorised as an offence in itself with the abuser usually charged with crimes such as assault and battery or rape.  New laws could see victims able to press charges for physical and psychological abuse.

To speak to our confidential experts in family law please call our team in Manchester on 0161 492 0300 and we will get back to you ASAP.

Crumpsall Solicitors

Manchester