A Guide to Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is not always a black eye. It can be control, fear, isolation, surveillance, financial restriction, gaslighting, stalking, sexual abuse or abuse that continues long after separation.
If you are experiencing abuse, questioning what is happening in your relationship, recovering after leaving or supporting somebody else, it can be difficult to know what to do next. You do not have to make every decision today, but you do need clear and reliable information about your options.
A Guide to Domestic Abuse is a compassionate and practical 128-page digital guide to recognising abuse, protecting yourself and understanding the support and legal protection available in England and Wales.
Inside the guide, you will learn about:
• Physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, economic and technology-facilitated abuse
• Coercive and controlling behaviour, gaslighting, DARVO and trauma bonding
• Safety planning, preparing to leave and seeking help without increasing the risk
• Protecting children and dealing with abuse after separation
• Reporting domestic abuse to the police and preserving evidence
• Clare’s Law and checking a partner’s history of violence or abuse
• Non-molestation orders, occupation orders and other legal protections
• Legal aid, the court process and Special Measures
• Housing, finances, child maintenance and divorce
• Recovery, specialist organisations, helplines and further support
I grew up with domestic abuse. I have also spent years at the Family Bar seeing how it affects adults and children, and how difficult it can be to know what to do next. I wrote the guide I wish my mother had.
Whether you need clarity, practical next steps or a better understanding of the choices available, this guide will help you feel more informed and less alone.
Written by Jason M Hadden MBE, barrister and founder of FamilyBarrister.
You will receive one 128-page PDF guide, available to download immediately after purchase. The guide is focused on England and Wales and updated for 2026.