FORCED MARRIAGE PROTECTION ORDER

 A Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO) is a type of injunction made under Part 4A of the Family Law Act 1996, introduced by the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007.

It is designed to protect a person who is being forced into marriage, threatened with forced marriage, or who has already been subjected to a forced marriage.

The Order can be used to prevent:

• Being taken abroad for the purpose of marriage 

• Threats, intimidation, harassment, or emotional pressure 

• Violence, coercion, or abuse by family or others 

• Confiscation of passports or travel documents 

• Any arrangements or attempts to force someone into marriage 

• Contact or behaviour intended to pressure a person into marrying against their will

• Using or threatening violence

• Harassing, intimidating or pestering you

The Court has wide powers and can tailor the Order to the specific circumstances of the case.

Its purpose is to provide immediate protection and safeguard individuals from harmful, abusive, or coercive behaviour connected to forced marriage.

Orders can be made urgently and without notice in emergency situations where someone is at immediate risk.

An application for a Forced Marriage Protection Order can be made under Part 4A of the Family Law Act 1996 by: 

• The person who is at risk of being forced into marriage 

• A person who has already been forced into marriage 

• A relevant third party, such as a Local Authority authorised by the Government 

• Any other person, with the permission of the Court (for example, a friend, relative, teacher, or support worker acting on behalf of the Victim)
   

 Breaching a Forced Marriage Protection Order is a criminal offence.

If the Respondent breaks any of the conditions:

• They can be arrested immediately, without a warrant.
   
• The breach can lead to criminal prosecution, which may result in:
   
  • A fine
     
  • A community order
     
  • A prison sentence (up to 5 years for serious breaches)
     

On some occasions you do not need to prove the breach yourself, the police investigate and take action. You can also apply through the Family Court for an enforcement should the order be breached.

At the Centre for Domestic Abuse (CDA), we are actively supporting Victims referred to us by professionals, or via self-referrals.

Every person’s situation is assessed individually, and all options are discussed, including the potential for applying for a Forced Marriage Protection Order where appropriate.

We understand that cost can be a barrier, which is why we are committed to ensuring access to justice:

• Legal Aid is available for Forced Marriage Protection Order applications, subject to financial eligibility and merits testing.
   
• Where Legal Aid is not available, CDA provides assistance on a pro bono basis, ensuring no one is left without the protection they need because of their financial situation.
   

Our team can help assist Victims with their options.