Mandatory pausing of civil court actions during domestic abuse investigations

Background

Introduce a requirement to pause or restrict civil family court actions, including occupation and financial orders, where there is an active domestic abuse criminal investigation or prosecution, unless there is a clear safeguarding necessity

Additional details

Victims of domestic abuse are often re-traumatised when alleged perpetrators use civil courts to continue control through housing, finances, or children while criminal proceedings are ongoing. This can create an imbalance of power, increase harm, and undermine justice. We believe safeguards are needed to prevent further abuse until criminal matters are concluded.

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