Changes To Domestic Abuse Laws in 2025

Inclusion of Controlling or Coercive Behaviour

Until now, domestic abuse laws have focused heavily on physical violence. However, coercive control, a pattern of behaviour that isolates, intimidates, or manipulates a partner, has now been brought under the same legal umbrella as physical violence. This means that those convicted of coercive control could face the same legal consequences as those found guilty of physical assault.

The government aims to acknowledge that domestic abuse isn’t always about physical harm. Psychological and emotional abuse can be just as damaging, and lawmakers want to ensure victims receive the protection they need.

However, coercive control cases can be complex. The definitions of such behaviour can be broad, and what one person sees as control, another may see as normal relationship behaviour. 

This means that innocent individuals could face serious accusations based on misunderstandings or personal disputes. But, this is where Eventum Legal can help you, we are defence lawyers across the UK.

Implementation Of MAPPA For Specific Offenders

The biggest change in the law is the decision to place those sentenced for coercive control offences under MAPPA if their sentence is 12 months or longer.

MAPPA is a framework designed to monitor offenders after release to reduce reoffending risk. While it was traditionally used for violent and sexual offenders, this new expansion means that anyone convicted of coercive control could face strict monitoring conditions, even if they’ve served their sentence.

For those who have been accused of domestic abuse, this is a very important point to be aware of. MAPPA means that your movements, communications, and activities could be closely watched, impacting your daily life long after your sentence.

Understanding MAPPA: What It Means for Defendants

What is MAPPA?

MAPPA (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements) is a system that brings together the police, probation services, and social services to monitor individuals considered a risk to the public.

There are three levels of MAPPA management:

• Level 1 (Ordinary Agency Management): The individual is monitored within standard probation and police processes.
• Level 2 (Multi-Agency Management): A range of agencies coordinate to ensure closer monitoring.
• Level 3 (High-Risk Management): The highest level of monitoring, often used for the most serious offenders.

Those convicted of coercive control could be placed at any of these levels, depending on the case details and perceived risk.

How Will MAPPA Affect Those Convicted of Coercive Control?

Being managed under MAPPA could mean:

• Regular check-ins with probation officers and police
• Movement restrictions or conditions on where you can live or who you can contact
• Electronic tagging or other surveillance measures
• Ongoing risk assessments, even after completing a sentence

These conditions could feel excessive and unfair for individuals who never intended harm and may have been convicted based on misunderstandings or weak evidence.

Concerns From A Defence Perspective

From a legal perspective, the main concern is whether MAPPA is a proportionate response for those convicted of coercive control.

While protection for victims is essential, we must also ensure that the legal system does not unfairly penalise individuals who may not pose a genuine risk. The consequences of MAPPA management could make reintegration into society extremely difficult for those who have served their time.

The Expanding Definition of Domestic Abuse & Its Implications

Controlling Or Coercive Behaviour: A Broader Scope of Offences

Coercive control can include:

• Preventing someone from having contact with family and friends
• Restricting access to money or resources
• Making threats or intimidating behaviour
• Constant monitoring or surveillance of a partner

These new definitions mean that more people could face accusations, and in some cases, relationships with normal tensions or arguments could be misinterpreted as coercive control.

Challenges In Proving or Defending Against Allegations

The biggest challenge in these cases is proving intent. Unlike physical violence, coercive control is often based on interpretation rather than clear-cut evidence.

This can lead to:

• Wrongful convictions based on one-sided accounts
• Difficulties in proving intent (e.g., was it controlled or just a bad argument?)
• The risk of people being convicted based on minimal evidence

Defence Strategies Under the New Laws

Key Legal Defences Against Allegations of Coercive Control

Common defences include:

• Lack of intent: Proving there was no intention to control or harm
• False accusations: Demonstrating inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements
• Context of behaviour: Providing evidence that specific actions were mutual decisions in the relationship

Challenging MAPPA Designation and Restrictions

If convicted, it may be possible to challenge a MAPPA decision, mainly if it imposes unnecessary restrictions. A legal challenge can be made if you can demonstrate that:

• The monitoring conditions are excessive
• You do not pose a risk
• Your conviction was based on limited or unreliable evidence

Importance of Early Legal Representation

Getting legal advice early is crucial. The sooner you speak with a defence lawyer, the better your chances of fighting the charges and avoiding harsh penalties.

What Should Those Accused of Domestic Abuse Do?

Understanding Your Rights Under the New Legal Framework

If you have been accused of coercive control, you must understand your rights under the law. You have the right to defend yourself, including access to legal representation, a fair trial, and the opportunity to present evidence in your defence.

Steps to Take if Facing an Accusation or Charge

If facing an accusation or charge, you should take several necessary steps. It is essential to avoid contacting the accuser, as any communication could be used against you in legal proceedings. Gathering evidence, such as messages, emails, and financial records, can be important in building your defence. Seeking expert legal advice from a solicitor specialising in domestic abuse defence will ensure you receive the necessary guidance to navigate the legal process effectively.

Contact Eventum Legal For More Domestic Violence Defence Guidance! 

The new 2025 domestic abuse laws introduce significant changes, particularly in how coercive control cases are handled. While these laws aim to protect victims, they also raise concerns for those falsely accused.

At Eventum Legal, we are committed to providing strong legal defence for those facing domestic abuse allegations. Contact our team today if you need advice or representation; your future and reputation are worth protecting.