When home is no longer a place of safety, the decision to leave can feel overwhelming. Whether the abuse is emotional, physical, financial, or coercive, many people facing domestic violence feel trapped, unsure of their legal rights, fearful of consequences, and uncertain where to turn. But it’s important to know you are not alone. There are trusted routes to safety, and domestic abuse support is available to help you navigate this difficult time.

At Berkson Family Law Solicitors, we understand how frightening it can be to consider leaving your home, especially when children are involved, finances are limited, or the person causing harm is still living with you. This article outlines the practical options available under domestic abuse law, including legal protections, emergency accommodation, and the support networks that can help you take the first steps toward safety.

When Leaving Home Becomes Necessary

For some, abuse escalates gradually over time. For others, it may reach a crisis point suddenly. Whether the situation involves physical harm, controlling behaviour, verbal threats, or emotional abuse, if you no longer feel safe in your own home, it’s important to take that seriously.

You do not need to wait for violence to occur. The law recognises a broad spectrum of abusive behaviours, and you have the right to seek domestic abuse support and protection before the situation worsens.

Emergency Domestic Abuse Support Options

If you feel you must leave your home immediately, there are several urgent support routes you can consider. These include:

1. Refuge Accommodation

Refuges offer safe, confidential housing for individuals and families fleeing domestic abuse. Staffed by trained support workers, these spaces provide not just a roof over your head, but emotional guidance and practical domestic abuse support for rebuilding your life.

You can access a refuge by contacting a national domestic abuse helpline or through local women’s aid charities. Many refuges are equipped to support those with children, and you do not need to have reported the abuse to the police to be accepted.

2. Social Services Support

If you have children and are worried about their safety or living arrangements, social services may be able to assist you with emergency accommodation or protective measures. While some fear involving social services, their primary goal is to keep children safe and support families in crisis, not to separate them.

In some cases, they can work in partnership with solicitors and housing providers to help you access temporary or long-term solutions.

3. Emergency Legal Protection

In addition to physical relocation, you may be able to remain in your home while the abusive party is required to leave. This is possible through legal tools such as:

• Non-Molestation Orders – These orders prevent someone from contacting you or coming near your home. Breaching one is a criminal offence.

• Occupation Orders – These determine who can live in the family home. Even if you do not own the property, the court can order the abuser to leave if it’s necessary for your safety.

At Berkson Family Law, our DV solicitors are experienced in applying for these orders, often on an emergency basis. In urgent cases, we may be able to help you obtain a court order on the same day you contact us.

Do I Have to Leave? Or Can They Be Made to Leave Instead?

One of the most common concerns we hear is: “But the home is in their name, do I have to be the one to go?”

The answer is no, not necessarily. Under family law UK, courts will always prioritise the safety and wellbeing of victims and children. If it is safer for you and your children to stay in the home, the court can remove the abuser regardless of whose name is on the tenancy or mortgage. An occupation order can make this happen, and we can guide you through the process with urgency and discretion.

Legal Aid and Financial Worries

Another major concern is affordability. Many people assume they won’t be able to afford legal help, but legal aid is available in most domestic abuse cases. If you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, or if the case is urgent, you may be eligible for full legal funding.

Our domestic abuse support team will assess your situation quickly and explain exactly what documents you need to provide. Don’t let financial fear stop you from seeking protection.

How DV Solicitors Can Help You Take Control

At Berkson Family Law Solicitors, we are specialists in domestic abuse law. When you contact us, we don’t just handle the paperwork, we offer guidance, reassurance, and clear legal advice tailored to your situation.

We help you:

• Understand your rights

• Apply for protective court orders

• Access legal aid

• Connect with local domestic abuse support services

• Navigate children’s arrangements or future housing if needed

We know how hard it can be to take that first step. But once you do, you’ll be supported by professionals who understand what you’re going through and are committed to helping you move forward safely.

Need to Leave Your Home? We’re Here for You

If you’re thinking about leaving your home because of abuse, or if you’ve already left and don’t know what to do next, please don’t face this alone. At Berkson Family Law Solicitors, we offer free initial consultations to help you understand your options and get urgent legal protection if needed.

Our experienced DV solicitors are here to guide you with compassion, confidentiality, and the legal strength to help you move forward.

Contact us today to speak with one of our team. Whether you need domestic abuse support, legal guidance, or just someone to listen, we are here for you.