Legal aid for divorce after sexual abuse?

[ClementineKelandra]

Im on income support after separating from H. I'm desperate desperate for a divorce but not sure if I will qualify for legal aid as I know the rules have changed now. There is no way I can stay married to this man but can't afford a divorce without legal aid. Would the fact that he sexually abused me mean I get help?

I'm sorry you're in this position.

Have you ever reported him for the abuse? I think a solicitor would require some sort of evidence that abuse has been experienced rather than just taking your word for it. It's a shit new ruling. I was lucky that I was able to get legal aid after experiencing EA. Some forms of abuse are so much harder to prove than others

Sorry, one more thing. I have a friend who has experienced shocking EA and is relying on the support she's received from a local DV charity along with her GP confirming that she's on ADs to back up her claim for legal aid.

You probably can afford a divorce without legal aid incidentally. It all depends on how complex your marital finances/assets are. If there isn't much to argue about, for example, it's relatively cheap and a solicitor will take their fee out of the final settlement. Many offer a free initial consultation so I'd suggest you make an appointment and get the information rather than believing you can't act.

I haven't reported him to the police but I did take to women's aid several times and I'm being treated for depression and anxiety. I wonder if that would be enough. If I need to I will report him to the police though. If he admits it would they be enough? I'm pretty sure he wouldn't want to go to court.

I didn't know that cogito. I thought I would have to pay upfront. I didn't actually want any of his money but could I just claim enough from him to cover divorce cost.

You don't have to pay up-front.

Thank you Cogito, that's really helpful.