Dependable, reliable, and empathetic domestic abuse advice
Whether you have left an abusive relationship or are starting to question whether your relationship is healthy, our team of compassionate domestic abuse experts are here to listen without judgement and offer clear support and advice to secure your safety.
A Court application can be made online or via the FL401 form with an accompanying C8 form if you wish for your contact details to be kept confidential from the other party. The application is submitted with your witness statement, which sets out what has happened in detail.
You can apply for the application to be made without notice to the respondent, meaning that they will not be informed of the application in advance if there is a risk that the respondent’s knowledge of the application could cause harm to you or your child, prevent you from making the application, or allow the respondent to delay proceedings by evading service of the application.
Upon receiving your application, the Court will list a hearing to decide what happens next.
If the application has been made with notice to the respondent, they will also be served the application and your witness statement and given the opportunity to prepare and serve their witness statement ahead of the first hearing.
The Court will review the application and may make an order at the hearing. They may decide that more information is required and list another hearing. If the hearing was listed without notice to the respondent, the Court may decide to list another hearing with them in attendance before making an order.
Further hearings may be required before an order is granted, or following the expiration of any orders made if a further injunction is required or if circumstances have changed.
We understand how difficult it can be to take the first step in any family matter, so we are here to handle any enquiries with sensitivity and understanding, providing a reassuring presence from the outset.
We will schedule a free initial consultation via Teams call for a time that suits you. At this stage, you will be introduced to a member of our outstanding legal team, who will be able to offer initial information regarding your matter and the next steps to formally instruct us. Please be aware that before your initial consultation, you will be asked to provide preliminary information via an intake form, and ID, anti-money laundering, and conflict checks will be completed.
Once you have instructed us to handle your matter, we will provide you with our letter of engagement and terms of business. These documents explain how we will provide our services and explain how costs are incurred.
Following our instruction, we will provide you with an initial information note, setting out the information discussed in your initial consultation, our preliminary advice, and any pressing first steps to be made.
Throughout your matter we will draw on our wealth of experience and expertise to provide comprehensive continued advice and representation. We take a non-confrontational approach to the unique needs and goals of every client, and take non-confrontational, constructive, and practical approach to matters.
We take pride in communicating clearly and effectively with our clients, so that you are always in control of the direction and strategy we take at each step of your matter. We endeavour to ensure that discussions with every party involved remain respectful and productive, whilst robustly representing your best interests.
If you instruct us to do so, we will assist with the implementation of any Final Orders/ agreements. Upon conclusion of your case, your file will be closed in accordance with our File Storage policy.
We are always on hand to provide further support, should it be required.
From the first call to final resolution, we guide you with care and clarity at every stage.
At Sadler Cross, we help individuals and families move forward with confidence during times of emotional and legal uncertainty. Whether you’re facing a separation, navigating sensitive family matters, or simply need honest guidance, we’re here to listen, support and advise without pressure or judgement.
Showing reviews about domestic abuse cases
Read why we have 230+ 5 star reviews! Real words from real people we’ve supported through challenges, change, and everything in between.
I do not have the words to show you how much you have helped me through the last 5 months. You have gone above and beyond which made me feel listened to, supported and you gave me hope when I really needed this. You are a brilliant solicitor and I am so pleased you were mine. You watched my back and made me feel safer at a very vulnerable time in my life. This is priceless.
Senior Partner, Solicitor, and Accredited Family Mediator
We know that taking the first step can feel daunting. Whether you need advice, reassurance, or simply someone to listen we’re ready when you are.
Sadler Cross Family Law is the trading name of Sadler Cross Family Law Limited, authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA number 805863). Registered in England and Wales, company number 12764066. Registered office: C/O Streets, Orderly House, Dragoon Road, Colchester CO2 7FU. VAT number 385 1758 62.