Assumption: "(Domestic Abuse Findings) We have separated, so the abuse cannot happen again and contact is safe."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
People think the end of the relationship removes the risk.
Court Reality
Under Practice Direction 12J, the court must be satisfied that the child and the parent they live with can be kept physically and emotionally safe before, during and after contact. In a 2026 case, the judge was not persuaded the case law treats the end of a relationship as necessarily protective.
Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.
The Gap?
"(Domestic Abuse Findings) We have separated, so the abuse cannot happen again and contact is safe."
Court Reality
Under Practice Direction 12J, the court must be satisfied that the child and the parent they live with can be kept physically and emotionally safe before, during and after contact.
Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.
familycourtbridge.org
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
Find your supportCookie Consent
We use essential cookies only, such as remembering this choice and keeping you signed in if you create an account. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.