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If you change your mind after reporting the incident
Once you report your partner/ex-partner to the police, the police will send a report to the PF if there is enough evidence. It is up to the PF to decide what action should be taken. It is not possible for you to withdraw your complaint or ‘drop the charges’. If you are anxious about what is happening, speak to the DALO.

Support for you after you report a partner/ex-partner
If you need any advice or support, contact the DALO or East Lothian Women’s Aid.

Once a case goes to court, VIA will get in touch with you. They will contact you to let you know what is happening at every stage of the court process and provide you with help and information. The DALO will contact you to tell you the outcome of the case.

Bail
If a court has imposed bail conditions on your partner/ex-partner while he is facing court action, be aware that these conditions end at the end of the case. If you want to continue to be protected, see a solicitor before the final court date (see section 7).

If you think your partner/ex-partner has breached bail you should contact the police immediately. They will investigate and if there is enough evidence, report this to the PF. Your partner/ex-partner may be arrested and kept in custody for a court appearance.

Other help from the police
The police can help you make your home as secure as possible (see section 3).

If you have left your home in an emergency to escape abuse, you may want to go back to collect personal belongings. It may be possible to arrange for the police to meet you at your home while you do this. Contact the DALO for more information.

For details of sources of help and support see section 12

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