Non-Molestation Orders

What is a Non‑Molestation Order?

A Non‑Molestation Order is a type of injunction issued by the family court to protect individuals and children from domestic abuse. These orders are designed to prevent threatening, violent or harassing behaviour and can provide immediate, legally enforceable protection.

A Non‑Molestation Order can prohibit someone from:

• Using or threatening physical violence
• Intimidating, harassing or pestering you
• Contacting you directly or indirectly
• Approaching your home, workplace or another specified location
• Encouraging a third party to behave in a way that breaches the order

The court will tailor the order to your circumstances, ensuring the restrictions provide the level of safety you need.

Who can apply for a Non‑Molestation Order?

You may be eligible to apply if the person you need protection from is:

• A spouse or former spouse
• A partner or former partner
• Someone you live with or used to live with
• A family member
• The parent of your child
• Parties to the same family proceedings
• An intermediate personal relationship which is or was of significant duration

If you are unsure whether you qualify, our expert solicitors can advise you quickly and confidentially.

Applying for a Non-Molestation Order

Applying for a Non-Molestation Order requires specialist legal advice and involves several important steps, including gathering supporting evidence, preparing a witness statement, completing the relevant court forms, and submitting the application to the court. If you are in immediate danger, you may be able to apply for an ex-parte order. This allows the court to grant protection without informing the other party beforehand. However, your application must meet the required legal threshold for this type of order, so it is essential to seek legal advice to ensure your case is prepared and presented appropriately.

Our specialist family law solicitors provide clear, practical and sensitive advice throughout the application process. We can help you with:

• Assessing whether a Non‑Molestation Order is appropriate
• Preparing your application and supporting statement
• Gathering evidence of abusive behaviour
• Applying urgently or without notice
• Representing you at court hearings
• Ensuring the order is logged with the police
• Securing additional protection, such as an Occupation Order

What happens if a Non‑Molestation Order is breached?

Breaching a Non‑Molestation Order is a criminal offence, if found guilty. A person found guilty of such an offence may face imprisonment for up to five years, a fine, or both.

We can advise you on:

• Reporting a breach
• Gathering evidence
• What the police can do
• Whether further court action is needed

Contact our Non‑Molestation Order specialists

Our specialist family law team can advise you about making an application for a Non-Molestation Order and what steps should be taken in your situation. We are focussed and efficient in our approach, to ensure you are supported and can make informed decisions should you need to go through this process.