Changes To Domestic Abuse Laws in 2025: A Critical Perspective

As founder of the Falsely Accused Network, I’ve been closely monitoring the evolving landscape of domestic abuse legislation in the UK. The changes introduced in 2025 raise significant concerns about fairness, proportionality, and the rights of the accused that I feel compelled to address.

Troubling Expansion of MAPPA Coverage

The most alarming development is that offenders sentenced to 12 months or more for controlling or coercive behaviour will now be placed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA). This system, previously reserved mainly for violent and sexual offenders, has been expanded through the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, which took effect in February 2025.

While victim protection is essential, this dramatic expansion of MAPPA represents a concerning overreach that could severely impact those who have been falsely or unfairly accused.

The Dangerous Broadening of “Abuse” Definitions

Until recently, domestic abuse laws focused primarily on physical violence. Now, the definition has expanded dramatically to include coercive control – a pattern of behaviour that allegedly isolates, intimidates, or manipulates a partner.

This presents a deeply troubling issue: what one person perceives as control, another might view as normal relationship dynamics. The definitions are dangerously subjective, creating fertile ground for misinterpretations and false allegations. I’ve seen countless cases where ordinary relationship conflicts have been weaponized and reframed as “coercive control.”

MAPPA: Disproportionate Punishment That Extends Beyond Sentences

MAPPA implementation means those convicted could face:

- Intrusive regular check-ins with authorities

- Severe restrictions on movement and association

- Electronic tagging and surveillance

- Ongoing assessments that effectively extend punishment indefinitely

This framework makes reintegration into society nearly impossible for many. At the Falsely Accused Network, we’ve witnessed how these measures destroy lives, careers, and families – often based on allegations that wouldn’t stand up to proper scrutiny.

The Evidence Problem

The most concerning aspect is how these cases are proven. Unlike physical violence, coercive control allegations often rely on subjective interpretation rather than concrete evidence. This creates a dangerous imbalance where:

- Accusations can be made with minimal supporting evidence

- The accused faces an uphill battle to disprove claims about their intentions

- Normal relationship tensions can be retroactively reframed as abuse

- The burden of proof effectively shifts to the accused

Defending Against These New Threats

In response to these concerning developments, I advise anyone facing such allegations to:

- Document all interactions thoroughly

- Secure communications that demonstrate the true nature of the relationship

- Challenge any MAPPA designation that seems excessive

- Seek specialized legal representation immediately

A Call for Balance

At the Falsely Accused Network, we recognize the importance of protecting genuine victims of domestic abuse. However, these new laws tip the scales of justice dangerously, potentially criminalizing normal relationship behaviours and subjecting the accused to punishment far beyond what is proportionate.

We continue to advocate for a more balanced approach that protects victims while safeguarding the fundamental rights of the accused. Until then, we remain committed to supporting those who find themselves unfairly caught in this expanding legal net.

If you’ve been falsely accused of domestic abuse then please visit www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk or email support@falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk to arrange a free and confidential call. ( Great Britain Only )

*Michael Thompson is the founder of the Falsely Accused Network, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals facing false allegations of domestic abuse and advocating for fair legal processes.*