If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline, free and 24 hours: 0808 2000 247
Family law · Protection
Protection, as fast as you need it
If someone is hurting, threatening or controlling you, the court can order them to stay away, often within a day and sometimes before they are even told.
“I need to keep myself and my children safe.”
Where most of our clients begin
Domestic abuse is not only physical. Threats, harassment, coercive control and financial control all count, and the family court can protect you from all of them.
We act quickly and discreetly. Where you are at immediate risk, we can apply for an order without the other person being told first, so that you are protected before they know an application has been made.
How we help
- Non-molestation orders against harassment, threats and violence
- Occupation orders deciding who may live in the home
- Urgent applications made without notice to the abuser
- Keeping your address confidential from the other party
- Linked child arrangements and divorce advice
- Help checking whether you qualify for legal aid
The process
How an emergency order works
What happens after you call us, in plain terms.
- 1
Today
You tell us what is happening
In confidence, at your pace. We assess the risk and what protection you need. If you are in danger right now, call 999 first.
- 2
Often the same day
We prepare form FL401
Your application and a statement explaining what has happened. Your address can be kept confidential using form C8.
- 3
Where urgent
Without-notice hearing
Where waiting would put you at risk, a judge can hear the application without the other person present and make an order straight away.
- 4
After the order
Order served
The order is personally served on the other person. Breaching a non-molestation order is a criminal offence, and the police can arrest them.
- 5
Usually within weeks
Return hearing
The other person can respond at a later hearing, where the court decides whether to continue the order and for how long. We represent you there.
FAQs
Domestic Abuse & Injunctions: your questions
Still unsure? A ten-minute call usually settles it.
What is a non-molestation order?
A court order under the Family Law Act 1996 that stops someone using or threatening violence, harassing, intimidating or pestering you or your children. Breaching it is a criminal offence.
What is an occupation order?
An order that decides who can live in the family home. It can require the other person to leave, stay a set distance away, or allow you back in, even if they own or rent the property.
Can I get an order without the abuser knowing?
Yes. If giving notice would put you at risk, or the matter is very urgent, the court can make an order 'without notice' to the other person. They then get the chance to respond at a later return hearing.
Is there a court fee?
There is no court fee for applying for a non-molestation or occupation order. Legal aid may also be available for your legal costs, subject to eligibility. We will check this with you.
Will they find out where I live?
Not from your application. You can keep your contact details confidential from the other party by completing form C8, which the court holds separately.