How we can help
Support for People Experiencing Domestic Abuse
Every person’s situation is different, which is why we provide tailored guidance based on your individual circumstances. Whether you’re seeking immediate protection or preparing for family court, we’re here to help you feel informed and supported.
Protective Court Orders
Guidance on applications for Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders and Emergency Protection Orders where appropriate.
Child Arrangements
Helping parents protect children where domestic abuse is a factor in family court decisions.
Court Preparation
Supporting litigants in person with paperwork, evidence, court bundles and understanding what to expect on the day.
Ongoing Emotional Support
Providing reassurance, practical advice and someone in your corner throughout your case.
What Is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a form of domestic abuse where one person repeatedly uses controlling or manipulative behaviour to gain power over another.
It isn’t usually one argument or one incident. Instead, it’s a pattern that develops over weeks, months or even years. Someone may control who you see, question where you’ve been, limit your access to money or make you feel frightened about disagreeing with them.
Some people are constantly criticised until they begin doubting themselves. Others are isolated from family and friends without realising it’s happening.
Every relationship is different. That’s why coercive control doesn’t always look the same.
Family courts recognise that abuse isn’t limited to physical violence. The effect that controlling behaviour has had on you, and on your children, can be relevant during family proceedings.
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McKenzie Friend Support
McKenzie Friend Support for Coercive Control Cases
Family court is difficult enough without trying to explain years of controlling behaviour on your own. Many people come to McKenzie Picave feeling anxious, exhausted and unsure whether anyone will understand what they’ve experienced. We take the time to listen as well as explain the court process, because emotional support is just as important as practical guidance.
We help clients organise their case so the court can understand what has happened. That might involve reviewing messages, helping you prepare a witness statement or explaining how family court hearings work.
We’ll also tell you when something may weaken your case. We believe people deserve honest answers, even when they’re difficult to hear. That’s something our clients tell us they value.
Most importantly, we never lose sight of the person behind the paperwork. You’re not simply another case number. You’re someone trying to move forward after an incredibly difficult period in your life.
Contact Us
Confidential, no-obligation consultation
For more information or to request a callback, please fill in the form below. A member of our team will respond shortly.
Tell us what’s happening and what you need.
We help you organise documents, write statements and know what to expect.
We are by your side for every hearing and every step after.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of coercive control?
Coercive control doesn’t always involve shouting or violence.
You may be stopped from seeing friends. Your partner might insist on knowing where you are at all times. They could control your spending or make you feel guilty whenever you make a decision without them.
Some people are constantly blamed for things that aren’t their fault. Others feel as though they’re walking on eggshells because they never know what will trigger the next argument.
It’s often the pattern that matters, rather than any single event.
Is coercive control a criminal offence?
Coercive control is a criminal offence in England and Wales when it involves repeated controlling or coercive behaviour within a qualifying relationship.
A criminal investigation is separate from family court proceedings, but the same behaviour may also be relevant in family cases involving children or protective orders. Even if no criminal charges have been brought, the family court can still consider allegations of coercive control when making decisions.
Can coercive control be used as evidence in family court?
Coercive control can be used as evidence in family court if it is relevant to the issues the court is being asked to decide.
The court doesn’t only look at individual incidents. It will often consider whether there has been an ongoing pattern of controlling behaviour and how that behaviour has affected you, your children or the wider family dynamic.
Presenting that pattern clearly can be just as important as providing evidence of individual events.
Can I get a Non-Molestation Order because of coercive control?
You may be able to apply for a Non-Molestation Order if you’ve experienced coercive control and need legal protection from further abuse or harassment.
Whether an order is appropriate will depend on your individual circumstances and the evidence available. If you’re considering making an application, understanding what the court is likely to ask for can help you prepare before the hearing.
What evidence do I need to prove coercive control?
Evidence of coercive control can include text messages, emails, bank statements, call logs, photographs, diary entries or statements from people who have witnessed the behaviour.
Unlike physical abuse, there is rarely one piece of evidence that proves coercive control on its own. Instead, the court is often looking for a consistent pattern that demonstrates how the behaviour developed and the impact it has had over time.
If you’re unsure what information may be relevant, we can help you organise the evidence you already have before your hearing.
Can coercive control affect child custody arrangements?
Coercive control can affect child arrangements if the court believes the behaviour is relevant to a child’s welfare or safety.
When making decisions about where a child lives or how much time they spend with each parent, the court’s priority is always the child’s best interests. If controlling behaviour has affected the child directly, or has had a significant impact on the other parent, this may influence the court’s decision.
Every family is different, so outcomes will depend on the individual circumstances and the evidence presented. McKenzie Picave can help you understand how allegations of coercive control may be considered as part of your Family Court case.
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