How to Prove Coercive Control in Court: Legal Insights from Family Law Experts

Date Published: 23 April 2025
Author: Maria Endall

Coercive and controlling behaviour within families has gained significant attention following a series of high-profile Court of Appeal cases. These rulings highlight the challenges in identifying and proving this complex form of domestic abuse in legal proceedings.

Understanding Coercive and Controlling Behaviour in Family Law

Coercive or controlling behaviour in intimate or family relationships has been a criminal offence since the Serious Crime Act 2015. Further protections were introduced through the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. When children are involved—whether they are direct victims or witnesses—the implications are profound. Such abuse can significantly influence decisions regarding contact between the child and perpetrator.

In these situations, family courts may need to decide allegations of coercive control. If substantiated, such findings can affect decisions about the perpetrator’s future involvement with the children.

What is Coercive and Controlling Behaviour?

• Coercive behaviour involves repeated acts intended to harm or instil fear, such as threats, assault, intimidation, or humiliation.
• Controlling behaviour refers to actions that isolate victims, restrict their independence, and dominate everyday aspects of life—like finances, employment, movement, and social contact.

The Court of Appeal emphasised that coercive control is rarely evident from isolated incidents. These actions must be viewed collectively to understand the abusive pattern. A single event could be interpreted as stubbornness or stress, for example, but where there is a pattern over time, it may constitute abuse.

How to Prove Coercive Control in Court

Victims should document each incident meticulously and preserve any supporting evidence, such as messages or photos. Testimony from friends or family who notice behavioural changes or social withdrawal can also support a claim.

Impact of Coercive Control on Children

The Court of Appeal identified several ways in which children can be harmed by coercive control:

• Direct abuse towards the child.
• A victim’s inability to meet the child’s needs due to fear of the abuser.
• A home environment filled with anxiety and fear.
• Exposure to misogynistic or harmful values that shape the child’s worldview.

Legal Support for Victims

As family law solicitors and Resolution members, we routinely assess the risk of domestic abuse, even when it isn’t the primary concern of the client. Once identified, we provide comprehensive legal guidance and support.

For family law advice, contact Hatch Brenner on: 01603 674529

Support Services:

• National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247
• Leeway: 0300 561 0077
• Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327