When Someone Has a History of Violence: Disclosure, Accountability and Safety
For many survivors, seeking justice and acknowledgement is an important part of the healing journey. It is not about dwelling on the past or reopening old wounds—it is about having their experiences recognised, understanding their rights, and knowing that what happened to them matters. Whether through the criminal justice system, civil proceedings, or simply gaining… Read More Cross-border domestic abuse
Understanding what information is shared between countries about domestic abuse and domestic violence is essential for survivors seeking justice across international borders. In cross-border domestic abuse and international domestic violence cases, authorities may exchange police reports, criminal investigations, court documents, protection orders, risk assessments, and evidence where legally permitted. This cooperation can play a crucial role when a survivor has moved to… Read More International domestic violence cases
No survivor should ever feel they have “left it too late.” Seeking information about reopening an abuse case is not about reopening old wounds—it is about understanding your legal rights, reclaiming your voice, and making informed decisions about your future. Whether your experience involves cross-border domestic abuse, international domestic violence cases, coercive control, psychological abuse, or physical violence, you may… Read More Left it too late!
Many survivors believe that once a case has been closed, or if no charges were brought, there is no possibility of justice. That is not always true. In today’s world, many abusive relationships cross international borders. Couples relocate for work, retire abroad, or move between countries during long-term relationships. Abuse may occur in one country… Read More Can an Abuse Case Be Reopened in Another Country?
The increase in reports of non-fatal strangulation is not necessarily a sign that it is happening more often—it is a sign that it is finally being recognised. For too long, survivors were dismissed because there were few visible injuries. We now understand, through neuroscience and domestic abuse research, that strangulation can cause brain injury, long-term… Read More I was one of those survivors.
There is no simple answer. Some people recognise the abuse within months. Others remain in emotionally abusive relationships for years or even decades. The question is not how long someone can survive—it is what surviving that environment can gradually cost them. When Warmth Is Replaced by Emotional Coldness Living with a partner who is consistently cold, dismissive… Read More How Long Can Someone Survive an Emotionally Cold and Abusive Relationship?
The risk of being murdered skyrockets the moment a woman tries to walk out the door. Michelle did not stay because she was weak, deluded, or foolish. She stayed because she had done the math better than anyone judging her from the outside ever had, and on some very rational level, she understood that her… Read More No visible bruises
In Spain, a final criminal conviction is generally recorded in the Central Criminal Records Register (Registro Central de Penados), which is maintained by the Ministry of the Presidency, Justice and Parliamentary Relations of Spain. Here’s how it works: Final convictions only. A conviction is entered once it becomes final (sentencia firme), meaning ordinary appeals have been exhausted or the time… Read More Central Criminal Records Register (Registro Central de Penados)
In Spain, if an appeal against a criminal conviction is refused, the consequences depend on which court heard the case and which level of appeal has been exhausted. Generally: The conviction remains in force. The person continues to have a criminal conviction unless it is overturned by a higher court. The sentence remains enforceable. If there is… Read More Domestic violence convictions in Spain
Several countries and jurisdictions have introduced schemes inspired by Clare’s Law, although they vary in how much information can be disclosed and who can request it. United Kingdom The UK has the most established system: Right to Ask – someone can ask police about a current or former partner. Right to Know – police can proactively disclose information… Read More Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme
