ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the ways in which pursuit of residence or contact with children through the courts can be used by abusive men as a means of continuing control over the lives of women and children. It explores the existing research literature by addressing the issue of child contact where there is a background of domestic abuse. A significant research literature has accrued in the intervening years voicing concern over child contact in the context of domestic abuse. The presence of domestic abuse is known to be a risk factor for direct physical abuse of the child. The chapter analyses the 208 court processes, three different categories of 'tool' or tactics available to a person intent on dominance of a former partner via a formal dispute over contact were identified. These are 'documentary' tactics; 'formal hearing' tactics, linked to court attendance; and 'contact' tactics which can be exercised when the perpetrator is exercising contact with his child.
