# Non-molestation orders: getting help and where to go

> **Signpost note:** crisis/help-oriented guidance only. Not a doctrinal treatise.

- **Jurisdiction:** England & Wales
- **Practice area:** Family
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-21
- **Interactive page:** https://kttclegal.info/library/notes/Family/non-molestation-orders-overview
- **Keywords:** non-molestation order, domestic abuse, Family Law Act 1996, support, National Domestic Abuse Helpline

## Overview

A non-molestation order is a court order that prohibits someone from molesting (a legal term covering harassment, intimidation, or violence, not only physical contact) a person they're associated with, or a relevant child. It's made under the Family Law Act 1996. Breaching one is a criminal offence. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, support and legal advice are available — you don't need to work this out alone.

## Official guidance

- **GOV.UK — Get a non-molestation or occupation order** — https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help
- Official guidance on applying, including that there are no court fees. Applications can be made online, by email, or by post.

## Support resources

- **Emergency** (999) — If you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- **National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge/Women's Aid)** (0808 2000 247) — Free and confidential, 24 hours a day. Also live chat, Monday–Friday. Note: the helpline signposts to Rights of Women for NMO-specific legal advice rather than handling applications directly.
- **Rights of Women** (020 7251 8887) — Specialist legal advice line for women, including on non-molestation and occupation orders.
- **Men's Advice Line (Respect)** (0808 801 0327) — Support for male victims of domestic abuse.
- **Galop** (www.galop.org.uk) — Support for LGBT+ people affected by domestic abuse.
- **Refuge** (www.refuge.org.uk) — Support for women and children.

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*Reference material from [KTTC Legal](https://kttclegal.info/), not legal advice. England & Wales.*