Non-Molestation Orders
A non-molestation order protects you, and your children, from someone who is abusing, threatening, harassing or intimidating you. Breaking one is a criminal offence.
Domestic abuse is my specialism. I’ve worked as an IDVA and a domestic abuse caseworker, so I understand the trauma that comes with it. I support people applying for an order, and people responding to one made against them, in a gentle and understanding way.
If you are in danger right now
- Emergency999If you are in immediate danger
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline0808 2000 247Free, 24 hours
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How I help with non-molestation orders
- Talking through what has happened, at your pace
- Completing form FL401 for an urgent, without-notice application
- Writing your witness statement and organising your evidence
- Preparing you for the return hearing, and sitting beside you
- If an order has been made against you: understanding it, and preparing your response
The process, step by step
Your applicationFL401Form FL401The application form for a non-molestation order (and occupation orders). It goes with a witness statement explaining what has happened.
You apply on form FL401, with a statement explaining what has happened. I help you write it clearly and send it to the court.
The first hearing, often without noticeWithout noticeWithout-notice applicationAn urgent application the court hears before the other person is told about it. If an order is made, there is a later "return hearing" where they can respond.
If the situation is urgent, the court can hear your application before the other person is told, and make an order straight away.
The order is served
The other person (the respondent) is given the order and told when the return hearing is.
The return hearingReturn hearingReturn hearingThe hearing after a without-notice order, where both people can be heard and the court decides whether the order continues and on what terms.
The respondent can say whether they agree with the order and give their version of events. The court decides whether the order stays in place, and its exact wording.
If the order is broken
Breaching a non-molestation order is a criminal offence. Call the police, and keep a record of what happened.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for a non-molestation order?
You can apply against someone you are “associated” with: for example a current or former partner, someone you have lived with, a relative, or the other parent of your child.
Do I need a solicitor to apply?
Absolutely not. You can apply yourself, and I can support you through every step.
Can I apply without the other person knowing?
Yes. In urgent situations the court can make an order without notice. There is then a return hearing where both sides can be heard.
Someone has applied for an order against me. Can you help?
Yes. I can help you understand the order, prepare your statement and support you at the return hearing.
How quickly can you help?
Very quickly. Get in touch and I’ll help you with the application as soon as possible, in a gentle and understanding way.
Have a question that isn’t answered here?
Contact RebeccaReady to talk it through?
Tell me what’s happening and where you are in the process. I’ll explain how I can help, and what happens next.