When Coercive Control Meets Family Law: The Responsibilities of Legal Practitioners

When Coercive Control Meets Family Law: The Responsibilities of Legal Practitioners

Coercive control, an insidious form of abuse within family law, is increasingly recognised for its profound impact on victims’ autonomy and well-being. Unlike physical abuse, coercive control often involves patterns of psychological, emotional, and economic manipulation, which can be difficult to identify and prosecute. As legislative measures evolve in Australia, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales, family law practitioners must deepen their understanding and refine their responsibilities to better protect victims and support justice.

This paper explores the complexities of coercive control in family law and examines the critical role legal professionals play in identifying, addressing, and supporting victims of such abuse.

To gain a deeper understanding of coercive control and the pivotal responsibilities of legal practitioners, download the full paper here. This comprehensive resource offers valuable insights and practical guidance for those working within family law or supporting victims of domestic abuse.

DOWNLOAD THE PAPER

Request an Appointment
Fill in the form below to find out if you have a claim.
Request an Appointment - Stephen Page
Things to Read, Watch & Listen

Known sperm donor: can they claim parental rights?

A known sperm donor can make the path to parenthood feel more personal and familiar. However, knowing the donor does not necessarily make the legal position straightforward. Can that donor later be recognised as a parent? The answer is maybe. Australian law distinguishes between different circumstances of conception, including donation through an IVF clinic, home… Read More »Known sperm donor: can they claim parental rights?

Is a sperm donor a legal parent in Australia?

A sperm donor is not necessarily a legal parent in Australia. Equally, describing a man as a “donor” does not automatically mean he cannot be one. The answer depends on how conception occurs and, particularly with a known donor, the understanding behind the arrangement and what happens after the child is born. That distinction matters… Read More »Is a sperm donor a legal parent in Australia?

Paid sperm donation in Australia: is it legal?

Sperm donors in Australia cannot be paid a fee for their donation. They can, however, be reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. That distinction is the starting point for understanding what is lawful and what could amount to a criminal offence. Australian sperm donation must be altruistic. A donor can help someone have a child without… Read More »Paid sperm donation in Australia: is it legal?

Family Law Section Law Council of Australia Award
Member of Queensland law society
Family law Practitioners Association
International Academy of Family Lawyers - IAFL
Mediator Standards Board