Legal Protection from Domestic Abuse
A Non-Molestation Order is a legal injunction issued by the family courts in the UK to protect individuals and their children from abuse or harassment by a partner, ex-partner, or family member. These orders are designed to prevent further harm and provide a sense of security for those affected by domestic abuse.
Under the Family Law Act 1996, a Non-Molestation Order prohibits an abuser (the respondent) from engaging in specific behaviours towards the victim (the applicant), such as:
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Physical violence or threats
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Harassment or intimidation
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Verbal abuse
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Unwanted communication (calls, texts, emails, social media)
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Approaching or entering the applicant's home or place of work
Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence, punishable by up to five years in prison.
You can apply for a Non-Molestation Order if you’re a victim of domestic abuse and the respondent is an “associated person,” which includes:
A spouse or ex-spouse
A civil partner or former civil partner
A fiancé(e) or former fiancé(e)
Someone you have a child with
A family member (e.g., parent, sibling)
Someone you’ve lived with or had an intimate relationship with
If you’re under 16, you’ll need permission from the High Court to apply.
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Complete the Application Form
Fill out Form FL401, available on the GOV.UK website.
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Prepare a Supporting Witness Statement
Include detailed information about the abuse or harassment you've experienced, any evidence (e.g., police reports, medical records), and why you need protection.
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Submit the Application
You can submit your application to your local family court. In urgent cases, you can apply for an order without notice (ex parte), meaning the respondent won't be informed until after the order is granted.
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Attend the Court Hearing
The court will review your application and may schedule a hearing. If the order is granted, it will be served to the respondent, and any breaches can be reported to the police.
Non-Molestation Orders typically last between 6 to 12 months but can be extended if necessary. Breaching the order is a criminal offence, and the respondent can be arrested and prosecuted.
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It can prohibit physical violence, threats, harassment, intimidation, and any form of unwanted communication or contact.
In urgent cases, you can apply for an emergency order without notice, which can be granted on the same day.
No, there are no court fees for applying for a Non-Molestation Order.
Yes, the respondent has the right to attend a court hearing and present their case.
Breaching the order is a criminal offence, and the respondent can be arrested and face up to five years in prison.
At Waely Law, we make the legal process clear, efficient, and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out to us:
