C/L/154. Family proceedings and domestic violence

This paper is discussed in two parts. The first part advices on family proceedings involving the deterioration of the relationship between a cohabiting couple. It advices on whether a father would be successful in an application to obtain a residence order, and the possibility of a contact order being made. It also discusses the issue of welfare reports and whether income or capital can be obtained. The second part discusses the impact of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004. As it is a recent piece of legislation, not many cases have been decided under its provisions, so most of the conclusions are drawn from academic and practising opinions.