👨👩👧 Family RightsDomestic Abuse Protection and Legal Rights in the UK
Understand your legal rights and protections against domestic abuse in the UK. Learn about orders, support, and how to get help.
Last verified: April 2026
Domestic abuse is a serious crime in the UK, affecting millions each year. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you have legal rights to protection and support. This guide explains your options and how to take action.
⚖️ Your Key Rights
- ✓You have the right to report domestic abuse to the police without fear of retaliation.
- ✓You can apply for a Domestic Abuse Protection Order (DAPO) to stop an abuser from contacting or approaching you.
- ✓You are entitled to emergency injunctions, such as a Non-Molestation Order, to prevent further abuse.
- ✓You have the right to apply for an Occupation Order to exclude an abuser from your home.
- ✓You can access free legal aid for family law matters, including domestic abuse cases, if you meet the financial criteria.
- ✓You have the right to confidential support from domestic abuse charities and helplines.
- ✓You can request special measures in court, such as giving evidence behind a screen, if you feel unsafe.
📋 Common Situations Explained
Living with an abusive partner
If you share a home with an abusive partner, you can apply for an Occupation Order to force them to leave. You may also get a Non-Molestation Order to stop them from contacting you or coming near your home.
Being stalked or harassed by an ex-partner
If an ex-partner is repeatedly contacting you, threatening you, or following you, you can apply for a Domestic Abuse Protection Order (DAPO) to legally stop their behaviour. Breaching this order is a criminal offence.
Fear of financial abuse
If your partner controls your money, prevents you from working, or forces you into debt, you can seek legal protection and support from organisations like Refuge or Women’s Aid. Financial abuse is a recognised form of domestic abuse.
Abuse from a family member
Domestic abuse isn’t just between partners—it can come from parents, siblings, or other relatives. You can apply for protective orders and access support services, regardless of your relationship to the abuser.
Reporting abuse to the police
If you report abuse to the police, they must investigate and may charge the abuser. You can also request a Domestic Abuse Protection Notice (DAPN) in emergencies, which can lead to a DAPO in court.
🚀 What To Do
- 1Call 999 immediately if you are in immediate danger. If you can’t speak, use the Silent Solution by dialling 55 when prompted.
- 2Contact the police on 101 to report abuse that isn’t an emergency. Ask for the Domestic Abuse Unit if possible.
- 3Seek support from a specialist domestic abuse charity like Refuge, Women’s Aid, or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247).
- 4Apply for a Non-Molestation Order or Occupation Order through your local family court. You can get help from a solicitor or legal aid.
- 5Gather evidence of abuse, such as messages, photos, or witness statements, to support your case.
- 6Consider applying for legal aid to cover court fees and solicitor costs if you have a low income.
👨⚖️ When to Get a Lawyer
If you’re unsure about your legal options, need help applying for orders, or feel unsafe during court proceedings, speak to a solicitor specialising in domestic abuse. Free legal advice is available through organisations like Rights of Women.
🔗 Official Resources
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