Frequently asked questions.

There is no court application fee. Our paper preparation is free. A solicitor may charge unless legal aid covers their work.

Ask for an emergency, without-notice order if you need immediate protection. The court decides urgency and timing; a same-day order is not guaranteed.

You can apply yourself. A solicitor can advise and represent you, and legal aid may help with their fees.

Your supporting statement explains what happened. Include relevant documents you have; the application guidance does not require every applicant to supply police reports or photographs.

The application process does not require a prior police report. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Usually a partner or former partner, close family member, someone you live or lived with, or someone with shared parental responsibility. Check the eligibility rules.

No. Domestic abuse can include threats, intimidation, coercive control and emotional abuse, as well as physical violence.

Yes. Living with the respondent does not itself prevent an application. An occupation order may also be relevant to who can live in the home.

Use form C8 to ask to keep your address and telephone number private. Avoid putting confidential details in documents served on the respondent.

Yes. Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender. The relationship and other eligibility rules still apply.

The order states its duration. If it is ending and you still need protection, you can apply to extend it.

Contact the police if the respondent breaches the order. Call 999 if you are in immediate danger.

Read the specific terms of your order. Child arrangements are a separate issue; get legal advice if protection terms and existing child arrangements overlap.

A non-molestation order is a civil order, not a criminal conviction. Breaching it without reasonable excuse is a criminal offence and may lead to prosecution.

You can ask the court to vary or discharge an order using form FL403. The court decides; the order remains in force unless changed or ended.

Yes. We prepare your witness statement and FL401 papers free of charge, with guidance on signing and submitting them. There is no court application fee.

No. We prepare your papers and guide you. You check, sign and submit them to the Family Court yourself, so you stay in control.

No. We do not represent you in court. Our website provides general information, rather than legal advice about your individual circumstances.

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Our FL401 preparation service covers England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different legal processes; seek guidance for the relevant jurisdiction.