The current Coronavirus pandemic has affected us all, and over the past few months, it has been widely reported that there has been an increase of individuals being served with DVPNs and DVPOs.

At Elliot Mather, our expert Criminal Defence team appreciate that coming into conflict with the criminal justice system is a worrying and distressing time. It is because of this that we endeavour to provide friendly and professional advice at any stage of your matter.

Free Initial Telephone Options Appointment 

We provide a free initial telephone options appointment to see how we can assist in your circumstances. Please call 0330 333 2613 for a no obligation, initial discussion or email enquiries@elliotmather.co.uk and we will call you back.

What is a Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN)?

A DVPN is a notice that can be issued to an individual aged 18 or over who is alleged to have been violent towards, or threatened violence towards an associated person. Consequently, a DVPN is required to protect that person from such violence or threats. Within this notice, it must outline the provisions in place that will protect the associated person. In cases whereby both parties are cohabiting, a DVPN can prohibit the accused of entering their home address and other various restrictions for a maximum period of 28 days.

What is a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)?

Once an individual is served with a DVPN, within 48 hours of this being issued, an application for a DVPO will be heard at the Magistrates’ Court. In this instance, the complainant doesn’t have to attend Court, instead a police statement may be given in evidence. In these cases, it is common for a reliance of footage taken from police officers’ body cameras as evidence for the accused’s behaviour. It is because of this, that it is vital that you seek expert advice from a criminal defence solicitor so you have a full understanding of the charges being brought you, and so your defence can be accurately prepared.  

Why is it important to seek legal advice from a Criminal Defence Solicitor? 

If you are arrested on domestic violence charges, it is vital that you have legal representation from the start. Criminal prosecutions will usually begin at the Police Station, it is therefore of the utmost importance that you have access to expert legal advice, as any decisions made during interviews could have a decisive effect upon the outcome of the investigation. 

When you have the benefit of legal advice at your interview, the investigators will provide our representative with ‘disclosure’ outlining the reasons they wish to interview you. It will allow you to understand how the investigators think you have committed a crime, and discuss any information or evidence that contradicts this. 

How we can help

We recognise that each person is an individual and often a sensitive approach is required.  We guarantee to provide a professional, confidential and sensitive service with legal advice given in an easily understood professional and comprehensive manner.

Funding

You may be entitled to free initial legal advice and representation under Legal Aid. Speak to us today to find out more.

We can also act on a private paying basis for appeals.

Location 

Our Solicitors are able to provide expert advice across the country with a network of offices based in: Chesterfield, Nottingham, Mansfield and Derby.

How to get in contact 

Our team are on hand to help you and can assist wherever you are based. Please call us on 0330 333 2613 for a no-obligation, initial discussion or email enquiries@elliotmather.co.uk and we will call or email you back.

How to make contact out of hours 

We operate a call out system, meaning that representation from our expert criminal law team can be requested at any time of the day or night.  The police will contact a call centre who will then telephone us immediately.

If you require assistance from one of our criminal defence solicitors when out of our normal office hours, it is vital that you call us on:

• Chesterfield: 07717802850
• Derby: 07776240152
• Nottinghamshire: 07741592301

• Criminal