Domestic Abuse Legal Protection
If someone is hurting you or making you feel afraid, you can ask for help. The law can stop someone from contacting or coming near you.
What Counts as Abuse
Abuse is not only hitting or pushing. It includes many things.
- Threatening or frightening you 😨
- Controlling what you do, where you go, or who you see
- Taking your money or stopping you from working
- Saying cruel things to hurt your feelings
You do not have to put up with any of this. It is not your fault.
Orders the Court Can Make
A court can give you a non-molestation order. This tells the other person to stop contacting or threatening you. Breaking this order is a crime. The police can arrest them.
A court can also give you an occupation order. This can make the other person leave your home — even if they own it.
- You can get these orders very quickly, sometimes the same day 🚨
- The other person does not need to know you are applying
- Legal help is free — you do not need money to get it
Who Can Help You
You do not have to do this alone. Many people want to help you.
- 📞 National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Call 0808 2000 247 — free, any time, day or night
- 🚨 Emergency: Call 999 if you are in danger right now
- 📞 Silent call: If you cannot speak, call 999 and press 55
- A solicitor (lawyer) can go to court for you today in an emergency
Tell a GP, nurse, or social worker too. They can write a letter to support your case.
What Happens Next
When you ask for help, a solicitor will listen to what happened. They will write it down as a statement.
A judge looks at your statement and decides quickly. In many cases you get an order the same day.
- You do not have to meet the other person in court
- You can bring a friend or supporter with you
- The order can also protect your children
You can also ask the police to use Clare's Law. This lets you find out if a partner has a history of violence.
Questions people often ask
Do I have to leave my home to be safe?
No. A court can make the abuser leave the home instead. You have the right to stay.
Will it cost me money to get a court order?
No. Legal help is free in domestic abuse cases. You do not need savings or a job to get help.
What if I am scared to go to the police?
You can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline first. They are free and confidential. They will help you decide what to do next.
Can the order protect my children too?
Yes. A non-molestation order can include your children. The court always thinks about keeping children safe.
Where to get help
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247
Free, confidential, 24 hours a day.
- Refuge — emergency safe houses
Safe accommodation for women and children fleeing abuse.
- Men's Advice Line — 0808 801 0327
Free support for men experiencing domestic abuse.
- Find a free legal aid solicitor
Find a family law solicitor who can apply for emergency orders at no cost to you.
- Child Arrangements
How to arrange safe contact with your children.
Easy read version last reviewed 2026-06-15.