Emotional and psychological abuse could become a crime in Scotland as part of a major reform of domestic abuse law.
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation looking at how best to take forward plans to create a specific new offence of domestic abuse.
This could see the law expanded to take in a range of actions which are not currently classed as being criminal, such as depriving someone of their liberty, isolating them from loved ones and controlling their access to money.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson hailed the move as a “significant leap forward in tackling the scourge of domestic abuse in our communities”.
He added: “It will expand criminal law in Scotland and make us world-leading in our response to this most heinous of crimes, protecting those who are some of the most vulnerable in society.”
It comes after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced in her programme for government that ministers would consult on whether having a specific offence of domestic abuse would improve the justice system for victims of this type of crime.
They found broad support for the move but a range of views on how a specific new offence should be created.
The consultation will consider if an offence of domestic abuse should cover psychological manipulation and control, as well as making threats and controlling or withholding access to services such as healthcare and education and job opportunities.
Mr Matheson said: “While we already have laws in place to protect against abusive acts that are clearly defined as criminal, it is crucial we strengthen our legislation to take into account more subtle, but equally damaging, forms of abuse which are difficult to prosecute within the existing legal framework.
“I am pleased that the general consensus on having an offence has already been reached, however I am also clear that the right approach is to listen to opinions of those right across the country to develop an offence that best fits the needs of those whom it will help.
“I’d encourage as many people as possible to share their views on this to develop law that is robust, fit-for-purpose and provides another vital step forward in tackling domestic abuse across Scotland.”