For women entangled in family-law proceedings, especially those who can’t readily access free legal aid, Rights of Women is a vital resource. Established in 1975, this feminist legal charity fosters women’s empowerment through knowledge of the law. While they cover multiple areas (criminal law, immigration, sexual violence), their Family Law advice lines are particularly well-known. Staffed by volunteer lawyers and legal professionals, these helplines offer free, confidential advice on issues such as divorce, finances, child arrangements, and protection from domestic abuse
The legal explanations from Rights of Women aren’t purely theoretical: they’re designed to help laypeople understand complex statutes and processes. This means survivors of abuse learn how to draft a Non-Molestation Order application, separated women see what to expect in a child arrangement hearing, and unmarried partners learn how to formalise finances if they split.
Rights of Women also curates an extensive library of guides and toolkits online, covering everything from how to represent oneself in court (if self-repping) to dealing with police or social services. Occasionally, they run training events for other organisations, ensuring that frontline workers—like IDVAs (Independent Domestic Violence Advisors), have up-to-date legal knowledge.
Key Services
- Legal Advice Helplines: Women can phone for direct guidance on family law, immigration law, or sexual violence.
- Online Guides & Toolkits: Step-by-step instructions on obtaining protective orders, negotiating contact, or understanding financial orders.
- Policy & Campaigns: Lobbies for improvements in laws affecting women, including legal aid eligibility.
- Professional Training: Equips frontline agencies with the latest developments in family and criminal law.
Why It’s Valuable
In a world where legal aid cuts and backlogged court systems leave many vulnerable women unrepresented, Rights of Women stands out as a beacon of accessible knowledge. Their feminist ethos underpins their service delivery, ensuring emotional support is woven into the legal advice.
They recognise that many clients may face intimidation, from ex-partners, family members, or the system itself, so they break down legal jargon into plain English, giving women tangible steps to regain autonomy. This approach not only helps survivors protect themselves and their children, but it also fosters a sense of confidence and self-determination.
By upskilling women to make informed legal decisions—whether about divorce settlements, shared parenting, or domestic-abuse injunctions, Rights of Women ensures the law is not merely an abstract concept but a real avenue for justice and personal empowerment
Website: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/
Registered Charity Number: 1147913