Isabel Jacques
- 31 Oct 2025
- Law Blog
- Family Emergency
As Domestic Abuse Awareness Month draws to a close, we spoke with Isabel Jacques about her role as a Trainee Solicitor in our Family Emergency Team and her thoughts on the misconceptions which still exist around domestic abuse.
Isabel joined the firm as a Paralegal after completing her Law Degree, Legal Practice Course, and Master of Laws. She has now embarked on a dedicated Family Law Training Contract and is due to qualify as a Solicitor in 2026.
Isabel assists Chrystal Theofanous, Head of our Family Emergency Team, with domestic abuse cases, Local Authority care proceedings cases and child arrangements matters. Domestic abuse is often linked to wider, complex family law issues and Isabel plays a key role in achieving life-changing outcomes for clients.
Isabel advises clients on how the law can protect them and guides them through the Court process, whilst also addressing their broader welfare needs by signposting them to local domestic abuse charities and support services. Her work involves making urgent applications to the Court for Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders and representing clients in Court Hearings.
When asked about common misconceptions surrounding domestic abuse, Isabel explained:
“There are still major misunderstandings around what constitutes domestic abuse. Many clients don’t realise they are victims of abuse if it isn’t physical. Psychological and emotional abuse - often displayed as controlling or coercive behaviour - can be just as serious, and the law recognises that.
Some clients blame themselves or feel guilty for taking action, which makes engaging with the legal process difficult. It is essential to listen, believe and validate their experiences. Regular and reliable communication also helps to build the trust needed for them to move forward.”
Isabel also noted:
“There are also a lot of misconceptions about who can be affected by domestic abuse, but it truly does not discriminate. Male perpetrators of abuse against women accounts for around 70% of reported cases – this is a lot lower than people realise. Abuse by females against their male or female partners is now more widely reported and understood. Domestic abuse can also occur in the homes of families who appear to be happy and thriving - but as society's understanding of domestic abuse continues to improve, we will all be better equipped to raise awareness and identify potential cases.”
Deeply committed to her work, Isabel told us how she balances her own well-being whilst supporting vulnerable clients:
“I am passionate about making a real difference to those who have survived domestic abuse. Most of my clients have been involved in highly traumatic situations, some of them with potential 'life or death' consequences, which have required urgent and extremely careful handling. This sort of work can take its toll on family lawyers, but I am lucky to work for a firm which recognises this and has formal support channels in place. I also have regular check-ins from my manager and caring colleagues who are always available if I need to share any concerns. It is vital that I safeguard my own mental health and resilience, so I can continue to do this work effectively for many years to come.”
We wish Isabel every success as she continues her career in family law.
What do Isabel's clients say about her?
Feedback from Isabel's clients frequently highlights her ability to balance professionalism objectivity with kindness and reassurance.
"Isabel Jacques represented me at court and I would like to thank her for all the work she’s put in and the support I've had. She really has been amazing. The whole service has been brilliant and I’d like to thank you".
"Isabel has been absolutely amazing with dealing with a case that I was involved in. She paid attention to the details shared by the victim and explained the hearing process to the victim and myself in a way that we were both able to understand. Her support has been nothing but remarkable. Thank you Isabel".
"Work alongside Isabel Jacques who dealt with my case. She was so professional, kind and patient. Thank you so much for your help with everything".
"Isabel Jacques has been outstanding through my court case, very efficient and very fast, reliable communication throughout. I felt extremely reassured by Isabel all the way through proceedings and have received a great outcome for the case. I'm extremely happy!! Thankyou very much, I would highly recommend Sills and Betteridge and Isabel Jacques".