Family injunctions (UK)
A family injunction is a court order issued under the Family Law Act 1996 or the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 to protect individuals from domestic abuse, harassment, or violence within a family or intimate relationship context.
What family law covers here
Family injunctions are legal remedies used in the UK to safeguard victims of domestic abuse, stalking, or coercive control within family or intimate relationships. They can prohibit an abuser from contacting, approaching, or threatening the victim, and may include occupation orders to exclude the abuser from a shared home. These injunctions are typically sought in the Family Court and can be granted on an emergency (without notice) or interim basis before a full hearing. They are distinct from non-molestation orders under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 but may overlap in cases of domestic abuse.
Key legal requirements
- Applicant must demonstrate a risk of domestic abuse, harassment, or violence
- Application typically made to the Family Court under Part IV of the Family Law Act 1996
- Evidence of abuse (e.g., police reports, medical records, witness statements) is usually required
- Court considers the balance of harm and the welfare of any children involved
- Orders can be made 'without notice' in urgent cases to provide immediate protection
Why this matters
Failing to obtain a family injunction when domestic abuse is suspected can leave victims exposed to ongoing harm, escalation of violence, or coercive control. Without legal protection, abusers may continue to harass, threaten, or physically harm the victim or their children. A granted injunction provides enforceable restrictions, but breaches can lead to criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment, reinforcing the importance of timely legal intervention.
Next step with VetroCheck
Use the Domestic Abuse Injunction agent if you want a structured review of the relevant documents and supporting record.
Related reading
Compliance note
This glossary content is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute formal legal advice, does not create a solicitor-client relationship, and should be checked against current legislation, official guidance, and the facts of the specific case.
At a glance
- Definition
- A family injunction is a court order issued under the Family Law Act 1996 or the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 to protect individuals from domestic abuse, harassment, or violence within a family or intimate relationship context.
- Term
- Family injunctions (UK)
- Category
- Family
- Published
- Keywords
- UK, Family, family