Divorce

[Athena007]

Following 6 years of marriage, and six years of being subjected to domestic violence, I have now decided to start divorce proceedings. Because my husband was holding a good job, I did not want to complain to the police as I didnt want anything to effect his job prospects and future. The only grounds I have to base my divorce is his violent behaviour, but I am afraid if this could effect his criminal record. Does anyone know if I base my divorce on the grounds of assault and domestic violence, can the court order him to be arrested or charged?

[redcrx]

there are only 3 options given for divorce proceedings as far as i know. desertion, adultary and unreasonable behaviour.

Go for unreasonable behaviour and give different reasons. They dont actually affect the proceedings unless he petitions as well saying hes not been unreasonable.

[VHG]

I think after 6 years of domestic violence you need to think more about yourself and less about him.

You sound as through you feel sorry for the fact that he MAY get a criminal record (he wont), when he has subjected you to years of domestic violence.

There is no excuse for domestic violence, and he sounds as though he is a nasty bully, picking on a woman.

He may have a "good job" in public but he has been hitting you in private, and if it does affect his job and his future that is his fault, not yours.

(And I say all this as a man myself - he deserves all he gets)

p.s. If you have never complained to the police, or have proof of his violence (eye witnesses, photographs, doctor/hospital visits etc) you may have trouble proving domestic violence, even though you know it went on.

Good luck.

[katiecarol]

I am with VHG you need to think of yourself. Unreasonable behaviour is the way to go. I had it down in mine and never had to prove it and i'd never been strong enougth to go to the police. when he did breeak in and beat me when pregnant the police come and he was charge with breach of the peace. this was never in my divource.

[Athena007]

Many thanks for your responses. Much appreciated