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Controlling or coercive behaviour is a criminal offence in England and Wales. It often happens behind closed doors and can be much harder to recognise than physical abuse. Many people don’t realise that what they’re experiencing – or being accused of – is a serious criminal matter until the police become involved.
At IMD Solicitors, we help individuals who are under investigation or facing charges for this offence. Below, we explain in simple terms what the law says, why getting legal representation early is essential, and how our team can support you.
What Is Controlling or Coercive Behaviour?
The law on controlling or coercive behaviour sits under Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015. It applies to people who are “personally connected,” such as partners, ex‑partners, or close family members.
In plain language, it means a pattern of behaviour that makes someone feel controlled, scared, isolated or dependent. Examples include isolating someone from friends or family, monitoring their movements, controlling finances, threats, intimidation, or repeated verbal humiliation.
For the behaviour to be a criminal offence, it must have a “serious effect” on the other person – meaning they either feared violence on at least two occasions or suffered serious distress which significantly affected their day‑to‑day life.
The police and courts also consider whether the accused knew or should have known that their behaviour would have this impact.
How Serious Is the Offence?
Controlling or coercive behaviour is taken extremely seriously. It can be prosecuted in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court and carries a maximum penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment.
Recent changes in law mean that offenders sentenced to 12 months or more may also fall under MAPPA (Multi‑Agency Public Protection Arrangements)—a monitoring system previously used mainly for violent and sexual offenders. This change came into force in February 2025 under the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024.
Why You Need Legal Representation
Being accused of controlling or coercive behaviour can be overwhelming. These cases are often complex because:
- They usually rely on a pattern of incidents rather than one event.
- Evidence can come from messages, emails, social media, witness statements, financial records, and even historic allegations.
- Misunderstandings, relationship breakdowns or counter‑allegations are common.
- Police can proceed even without the alleged victim’s live evidence if they believe there is enough supporting material.
Without proper advice, you could unintentionally harm your defence by saying too much, too little, or not providing key context.
A criminal conviction can affect your freedom, employment, family life, immigration status, and reputation. The risk is simply too high to deal with alone.
How IMD Solicitors Can Help
At IMD Solicitors, we understand both the legal and personal challenges involved in coercive control cases. We provide:
✔ Early Advice During Police Investigation
We can support you from the moment you are contacted by the police, ensuring that your rights are protected during interview and throughout the investigation.
✔ Strong Defence Strategy
Because these cases rely on patterns of behaviour, we carefully analyse every allegation and piece of evidence, identifying inconsistencies, alternative explanations, and legal defences – including whether your actions were genuinely in the other person’s best interests, which the law recognises as a potential defence.
✔ Representation in Court
We prepare your case thoroughly, challenge evidence where necessary, and work with specialist barristers to fight for the best possible outcome.
✔ Sensitive, Respectful Approach
We know how emotionally charged these situations can be. Our team treats every client with dignity, confidentiality and understanding.
If You Are Being Investigated or Accused
If you are worried about an allegation of controlling or coercive behaviour, it’s vital to act quickly. Early legal advice can make the difference between a charge being dropped or a case going to court.
Our professional, multicultural criminal law team is available for a confidential discussion today. Call us on: 0330 107 0107 or 0730 550 0824 between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., or request a call back.
This article provides a general overview of the issues that may arise in connection with international estates. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific advice should always be sought based on individual circumstances.