A Non-Molestation Order (NMO) is a court order that can help protect you from someone who is threatening, harassing or abusing you. It can stop them from contacting you, coming near your home or doing anything that makes you or your children feel unsafe.
You can apply for an NMO if you are experiencing domestic abuse from a partner, ex-partner, family member, or anyone you have a close personal relationship with.
Who Can Apply
You can apply for an NMO if any of the following conditions apply to you:
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You are or were married or in a civil partnership
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You live or used to live together
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You were in an intimate relationship
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You are related (for example, parent, child or sibling)
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You share a child together
You must be 16 or over to apply for a Non-Molestation Order. If you’re under 16, you’ll need the court’s permission.
What the Order Can Do
An NMO can stop the person from:
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Threatening or using violence against you or your children
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Harassing or contacting you by phone, text, or social media
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Coming near your home, workplace, or your child’s school
If they breach the order, the police can arrest them. Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence.
How to Apply
You can apply directly to the family court for an NMO using the FL401 form on GOV.UK.
You’ll need to include a short statement explaining what’s been happening and why you need protection.
If you’re in danger, you can apply for an emergency order (also called a “without notice” order) so you’re protected straight away. There’s no court fee to apply for an NMO.
What Happens Next
After you apply, the court will look at your form and may grant the order the same day if it’s urgent. If not, the court will set a short hearing before deciding.
Once approved, the order will be served to the person named in it. Service is usually carried out by a court bailiff or a professional process server.
If the Person Breaches the Order
If they contact or approach you after you place an order and you are in immediate danger call 999 straight away. Tell the police that you have a Non-Molestation Order in place.
How the Domestic Abuse Alliance Can Help
At the Domestic Abuse Alliance, we can:
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Help you decide if this order is right for you
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Support you in completing the application form
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Connect you with legal advisers if needed
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Guide you through the court process
You are not alone. Contact us for free, confidential help today.
