What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a form of domestic abuse where one person uses patterns of behaviour to dominate, manipulate, and isolate another. It does not always involve physical violence but can often be just as damaging. In the UK, coercive control is recognised as a criminal offence under the Serious Crime Act 2015.
At First Line Family Law, our family law solicitors in Cardiff and Bristol regularly supports clients who are experiencing coercive control within their relationships.
Is my partner being coercive and controlling? What are the signs of coercive control?
- Isolation from Friends and Family
A controlling partner may pressure you to cut ties, criticise loved ones, or make you feel guilty for wanting to see them.
- Monitoring and Surveillance
This can include constant phone calls, checking your messages, or using apps to track your location.
- Financial Control
You may be denied access to your own money, placed on a strict allowance, or forced to account for every purchase.
- Humiliation and Gaslighting
Making you question your own memory, judgment, or sanity, while belittling or mocking you.
- Restricting Everyday Choices
Dictating simple things such as what you wear, when you eat, when you sleep, or how you spend your time.
- Threats and Intimidation
Even if physical violence is absent, threats to harm you, children, or pets can be used as a method of control.
Why It is Important to Reach Out
One of the hardest parts of coercive control is the way it makes victims question themselves. You may feel like it’s your fault, or that things will get better if you just try harder. Please know: it is not your fault. Abuse is never acceptable, and help is available.
How Our Family Solicitors Can Support You
If you feel ready to take the next step, our compassionate Family Solicitors in Bristol and Cardiff and Bristol can help you explore your options in a safe, confidential setting. We can:
- Apply quickly for protective orders, such as Non-Molestation Orders or Occupation Orders.
- Support you through divorce or separation where coercive control has been a factor.
- Provide clear advice about your children, finances and housing.
- Connect you with support services who understand what you’re going through.
We know reaching out isn’t easy. But many of our clients tell us that speaking to a lawyer was the turning point in helping them feel stronger and safer.
Contact Our Cardiff and Bristol Offices
If you’re reading this and recognising your own situation, please remember: you do not have to go through this alone. Our experienced team of Family Solicitors in Cardiff and Bristol will listen, guide you, and stand beside you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a confidential conversation.
