Coercive Control in Relationships

Leaving people feeling trapped, isolated, and powerless, coercive control is a pattern of abusive behaviour designed to manipulate and dominate another person in a relationship. In this article we outline what coercive control is, the signs to look for, how to seek help, and the legal protections available.

A form of domestic abuse, coercive control is a pattern of controlling behaviours which can include a combination of emotional, psychological, financial, and social manipulation rather than physical violence. Coercive control is designed to make a person dependent by isolating them, depriving them of independence, and controlling their everyday lives.

Coercive control can happen in a variety of ways, including: isolating the victim from friends, family, and support networks; constantly checking on the victim’s whereabouts, phone or online activity; financial control through restricting access to money, preventing employment, or taking control of all financial decisions; emotional abuse such as gaslighting, belittling, or making the victim feel guilty for their emotions; intimidating the victim with threats of harm or custody battles; and micro-managing and dictating how a person dresses, eats, or spends their time.

Fear and anxiety, including feeling constantly on edge of making the abuser angry. Feeling isolated and loss of independence, including being cut off from friends and family. This may often result in feelings of low self-esteem, with victims of coercive control believing they are at fault or not good enough. There may also be physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or stress-related illnesses.

This will involve gathering evidence of the abuser’s behaviours and their impact. This evidence can include text messages and emails of controlling or threatening communications; statements from friends, family, or colleagues who have seen the abuse; financial records and documentation which show restricted access to funds or financial exploitation; a diary or written log of incidents; and notes from doctors or therapists about the victim’s mental and physical health. A solicitor can guide you in presenting this evidence effectively in legal proceedings.

If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 999. Report coercive control to the police, providing as much evidence as possible. There are also a number or support services available, including Refuge or Women’s Aid, that offer confidential advice and support. You can also speak to a solicitor for legal advice about your rights and options.

Recognised as a criminal offence under the Serious Crime Act 2015, coercive control is a criminal offence where a conviction can lead to up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. Court must see evidence of a pattern of behaviour that had a serious effect on the victim, such as fear of violence or substantial psychological harm. Court orders such as non-molestation orders, can also provide immediate protection.

Experienced in dealing with coercive control cases with sensitivity and expertise, our specialist solicitors can help you understand your rights and the legal protections available, including apply for non-molestation orders, restraining orders, or other injunctions to protect you. We can guide you through your divorce or separation, dealing with issues such as child custody or financial disputes.

As leading family lawyers in Milton Keynes, we are here to provide the guidance and legal protection you need. Contact us today for confidential advice. In addition to our head office in Milton Keynes, we also have solicitors in Bicester, Watford solicitors, and Central London. Talk to us in confidence and find out where you stand. Get in touch – we’re here to help.

This article is intended for the use of our clients and other interested parties. The information contained in it reflects the author’s view and is believed to be correct at the date of publication. However, it is necessarily of a brief and general nature and should not be relied upon as a substitute for specific professional legal advice.