How the Law Can Protect You in the Event of Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse can take many forms including physical violence, threats, harassment, intimidation, coercive control, unwanted contact, or psychological abuse. Any form can be deeply traumatic for those experiencing it. But if you are suffering abuse from a partner, ex-partner, family member or someone you’ve lived with, it’s important to know that the law can protect you. At RDC Solicitors, we believe survivors should have access to clear, practical legal help.

Available Legal Protections

If you find yourself in an abusive situation, the court system offers civil protection orders that aim to keep you (and, if relevant, your children) safe.

Non‑Molestation Order

A Non‑molestation Order can restrain an abuser from using or threatening violence, harassing, intimidating or contacting you, and sometimes from coming near your home.

Occupation Order

An Occupation Order can regulate who should live in or return to the family home and may force the abuser to leave. This can be vital if you wish to remain in your home safely.

Domestic Abuse Protection Order

In some parts of the country, you may also be able to apply for a newer protective measure such as a Domestic Abuse Protection Order (DAPO), which designed to offer long-term protection, potentially with additional restrictions such as exclusion zones or electronic tagging.

These are civil orders, which means you apply to the family or civil courts, not the criminal courts (though a breach of a non-molestation order can lead to criminal charges).

How Do I Apply?

Applying for an order typically involves:

• Completing an application form (often called Form FL401).
• Writing a witness statement describing the abuse, including dates, details, and any evidence available (e.g. threatening messages, photos, records of harassment).
• Submitting the application to the court.
• In urgent or dangerous situations, courts can grant interim (emergency) orders quickly, giving immediate protection while awaiting a full hearing.

Once an order is granted and properly served to the abuser, it becomes enforceable. Breach of a non-molestation order is a criminal offence, carrying potentially serious consequences.

Why Legal Support Matters

Navigating the legal system while experiencing abuse can be overwhelming, especially if safety, privacy, or emotional stress are involved. Having a solicitor on your side can help by:

• Guiding you through what type of order (or orders) best suit your circumstances;
• Helping you prepare a robust application and evidence statement;
• Representing you in court and advocating for your protection;
• Ensuring the order is correctly served and enforced;
• Advising you of your broader legal rights (e.g. housing, children, separation or divorce, if relevant).

Without legal support, victims may struggle with the complexity of forms, evidencing abuse, or understanding the full range of protections available, which can jeopardise both safety and outcomes.

Recent Changes & Strengthened Protections

The law is evolving to provide stronger safeguards for victims. Recent reforms have expanded the scope of protection to include all forms of domestic abuse, not only physical violence but also psychological abuse, stalking, coercive control, and harassment.

Protective orders such as DAPOs now give courts flexibility to impose measures like exclusion zones or electronic tagging, tailored to each situation. This helps to make protection more practical, immediate and lasting.

This means that, more than ever, individuals experiencing domestic abuse have powerful legal tools to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Why RDC Solicitors?

At RDC Solicitors, our Family Law team specialises in supporting individuals and families facing domestic abuse, separation, or other difficult personal matters. We know how daunting it can feel, both emotionally, practically and legally, and we are committed to providing empathetic, jargon-free advice. Our team offers:

• Experience in obtaining protective orders (non-molestation, occupation, DAPOs)
• Support in applying for injunctions, housing rights, and related family law issues
• Confidential advice and practical guidance tailored to your unique situation

We aim to help you secure your safety and peace of mind, while navigating the legal system with care, dignity and clarity.

Get in Touch

Remember you don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to listen, support and guide you, and to help you secure the legal protection and safety you deserve.

Our Family Department conducts an initial 30-minute consultation at no cost, giving you an opportunity for a preliminary discussion about your case.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and experienced family law team at RDC Solicitors. Contact us today on Bingley 01274 723858, Ilkley 01943 601173 or Bradford 01274 735511, for a confidential consultation with our family law team.