Urgent family protection support. England and Wales.
Legal Aid for Domestic Abuse
If you feel unsafe or need urgent legal protection, speak to a solicitor as soon as possible. We help connect you with solicitors who can explain Legal Aid eligibility and options such as protective orders.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If it is urgent but not an emergency, call 101.
Your safety comes first
If you or someone else is at immediate risk, call 999. If you need urgent advice, a solicitor can explain what legal steps may be available and what to do next.
What this page covers
Domestic abuse related issues can involve urgent protection, family proceedings, and housing concerns. This page explains typical legal routes and how Legal Aid may apply.
- Urgent protective orders and safety planning
- Non-molestation orders (where appropriate)
- Occupation orders (where appropriate)
- Child arrangements and contact concerns
- Evidence and eligibility basics
- Next steps and what to prepare
This page is general information and does not replace advice from a solicitor.
Common legal options
The right option depends on your situation. A solicitor can help you understand what is realistic and urgent.
Non-molestation order
A court order that can restrict harassment, threats, intimidation, or contact. Breaches can be serious.
Occupation order
Can regulate who lives in the family home and may set rules about access. It may be used when housing safety is an issue.
Family proceedings where safety is a concern
Child arrangements and related matters can be handled with safety safeguards. A solicitor can explain the process and what to expect.
How Legal Aid may apply
Legal Aid may be available depending on your circumstances and the matter. A solicitor will assess eligibility and explain what information or evidence is needed.
Evidence and documentation
In some situations, evidence is needed to confirm eligibility. A solicitor can tell you what may be acceptable and help you understand alternative routes if you do not have certain documents.
If Legal Aid is not available
A solicitor can still explain options such as fixed fees or limited-scope advice, depending on what you need urgently.
What to do now
- 1) If there is immediate danger, call 999.
- 2) Write down key details and dates, and keep any relevant messages or documents.
- 3) Contact us and we will connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and urgent next steps.
Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. This does not guarantee Legal Aid.
FAQs
Can I get Legal Aid for domestic abuse related family matters?
Legal Aid may be available depending on the situation and eligibility requirements. A solicitor can assess your circumstances and explain what evidence may be needed.
What is a non-molestation order?
A non-molestation order is a court order that can restrict harassment, threats, intimidation, or contact. A solicitor can advise if this is appropriate and how to apply.
What is an occupation order?
An occupation order can regulate who lives in the family home and may set rules about access. A solicitor can explain eligibility and whether it may apply.
Do I need evidence to qualify for Legal Aid?
In some situations, evidence is needed to confirm eligibility. A solicitor can tell you what types of evidence may be acceptable and what alternatives exist if you do not have it.
Is your service confidential?
Solicitors are bound by duties of confidentiality. This page provides general information and introductions. A solicitor will confirm what applies to your situation.
Need urgent legal protection?
Tell us what is happening and any urgent deadlines. We will connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and next steps.
This does not guarantee Legal Aid. Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment.