Domestic Violence and Coercive Control Family Lawyer Vancouver
Family violence is not limited to physical violence.
A relationship may involve intimidation, threats, financial control, monitoring, psychological abuse or other conduct that affects a person's safety and ability to make independent decisions.
If you are experiencing domestic violence or coercive control in Vancouver, obtaining advice from a family lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
What Is Family Violence?
Family violence can take different forms.
It may include physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological or emotional abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment and other conduct.
Financial or economic control can also be relevant in family law circumstances.
Coercive control generally refers to a pattern of behaviour used to dominate, control or restrict another person.
It may involve controlling access to money, monitoring communications, restricting movement, isolating someone from family or friends, making threats or repeatedly undermining their independence.
The legal significance of particular conduct depends on the circumstances.
What Is Coercive Control?
How Can Family Violence Affect Parenting?
Where family violence is alleged or established, the Court may consider the circumstances when making parenting and guardianship decisions.
The safety and well-being of children is a central consideration in parenting disputes.
What About Economic Abuse?
Economic abuse can be particularly important in family law.
Examples may include controlling access to money, preventing a spouse from accessing financial resources, exploiting another person's finances or using financial dependence as a means of control.
Financial circumstances can also affect a person's ability to obtain legal advice and leave an unhealthy relationship.
What Legal Options Are Available?
Depending on the circumstances, legal options may include advice concerning parenting arrangements, protection orders, financial support, property, court applications and other remedies available under British Columbia law.
The appropriate response depends on the particular circumstances and any immediate safety concerns.
If you are considering divorce, contact Illuma Family Law to arrange a consultation with a Vancouver family lawyer.
What If I Am Concerned About My Safety?
If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services or a local crisis service.
For legal issues arising from domestic violence or coercive control, obtaining confidential legal advice can help you understand your options.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, coercive control or economic abuse, contact Illuma Family Law to arrange a consultation.