Patterns, frequency and context matter
Risk assessment in partner violence requires attention to patterns, frequency and context — not just isolated incidents. Certain moments significantly increase the risk of escalation.
When risk increases
Critical moments
- At (announcement of) separation or recent relationship breakdown
- During legal proceedings about children or assets
- When the perpetrator is at risk of losing control
- When there is coercive control as a baseline pattern
Risk-increasing factors
- History of physical violence (even if it seems to have stopped)
- Threats of suicide or murder
- Access to weapons
- Substance use
- Social isolation of the victim
- Previous false reports or legal intimidation
Post-separation risk
- Violence can sometimes escalate right after separation
- Institutional/administrative abuse is a recognized form of post-separation violence
- Instrumentalization of children as a continuing control tactic
Documentation principles
- Describe behavior objectively (what, when, who was present, impact)
- Map patterns over time — isolated incidents disappear in a legal file
- Include digital and administrative components (tracking, false reports)
- Note impact on children separately
Temporary exclusion order
In Belgium, in cases of serious and immediate danger, a temporary exclusion order can be requested:
- Initial duration: 10 days, extendable to 45 days
- Request via the police or public prosecutor
- Follow-up by a justice house
Temporary exclusion order — Vlaanderen.be
Chain approach
For complex cases, involve:
- Police and public prosecutor
- CAW
- Justice house
- Childcare or school (if children are involved)
- GP or psychiatrist