IDVA’s (Independent Domestic Violence Advocates) are specialists in understanding how best to support people experiencing domestic abuse – we know how to assess risk of harm, we have in-depth knowledge of safeguarding and criminal and Civil matters and work in a trauma-informed way to ensure we reduce your fear and anxiety and work to keep you safe.
Since 2023, IDVA’s have been given permission to support people experiencing domestic abuse in Criminal and Family Court. We can do this whether you have legal representation or not. We are different to McKenzie Friends who are only allowed to support Litigants In Person.
Your ex cannot reasonably object to an IDVA being present and Judges are very supportive of IDVA’s being present in Court as we can be extremely helpful in supporting a client to progress the case. However, the reality is that most IDVA’s work for charitable organisations and simply don’t have the capacity to support you at Court, even if your case is open to them.
That’s where I come in. You can book me purely for court support if needed, even if you are not my client. As long as I believe you to be experiencing domestic abuse (and this does not have to be proven in court) then I can support you in Court. I have plenty of experience in Court, having worked as an IDVA both in the charitable sector and privately for over 18 years.
Why is IDVA support important?
Whether it’s your first time in the court arena or whether you have been there lots of times, it can be nerve-wracking to say the least. Having your expert sit alongside you in the courtroom, completely focussed on your wellbeing throughout the day, can help ensure you give your best evidence, remain calm and do the best job you can in these very difficult circumstances.
Here’s how I can help:
- Preparation. We will run through everything you can do practically and emotionally to make sure you are as ready as you can be for your hearing
- Special measures – I will ensure screens are available for the courtroom and a separate waiting room etc, separate exits, are in place on the day
- Ensure you understand ‘legal speak’, offer quiet guidance and prompts to ensure you don’t miss anything
- Safety – I will make sure you are never alone
- Notekeeping – I will take comprehensive notes so you don’t have to and you can keep them afterwards
- Calming presence to give you the confidence you need on the day
- Guidance to help with wording of Child Arrangement Orders
- Debrief afterwards so you process the outcome and are clear on next steps
Safeguarding IDVA support
As an IDVA I am also well placed to advocate for my clients in safeguarding meetings such as Section 7 interviews, Child Protection conferences and CAFCASS meetings. Having me alongside you can ensure you feel safe to speak up and I can help you articulate your concerns in a way that ensures professionals have a better understanding of your situation.
Testimonial
Here’s what Claire had to say:
“Caron attended my last hearing at family court – not only did she help me prepare my statement but was there on the day. Caron offered a coffee in the morning, she met me outside court and gave me a stress ball/ keyring which I still use, lavender spray to calm my nerves and held my hand whilst I was triggered hearing my Ex and his barrister talking.
Caron was my support, helped me find my strength to face court and even helped me with my outfit choice. I was so grateful to have Caron by my side and she continues to be there whilst other issues arise about the order, terms and bail conditions. I honestly wouldn’t have got this far without having Caron to call – she will always answer and offer her support. Caron has helped me overcome so much and each day I’m thankful for her – her ongoing support and honesty helps with her understanding of the court and legal processes. Caron understands what I have gone through and is so easy to speak with. “
IDVA Court Support Service
This service is available for court hearings in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Herts, Surrey, London. For courts outside of these locations, please contact me to discuss.
Service available for both clients instructing legal representation and Litigants In Person.