What is a non-molestation order?

A non-molestation order is an order preventing a person from molesting another person (or a child).

The parties have to be associated in some way. Usually they would be former partners, but certain family members and people who have lived together for other reasons can also fall within the definition of associated.

The protection afforded by the order lies in the fact that it is criminal offence to do anything that is prohibited by a non-molestation order without a reasonable excuse. This means that anyone who breaks the order runs the risk of being be arrested.  

There is no formal definition of what constitutes molestation. It means any form of physical, sexual or psychological molestation that has a severe effect on the health and well-being of the person that applies. Molestation does not have to mean actual violence it could for example relate to harassing behaviour such as the sending of repeated unwanted text messages.   

George Green’s Specialist Family and Divorce Lawyers give advice regularly about non-molestation orders. If you wish to discuss your matter in a free initial telephone consultation call Mark Vandaele on 01902 796930 (mvandaele@georgegreen.co.uk) at our Wolverhampton office or Jane Williams on 01384 340 528 (jwilliams@georgegreen.co.uk at our Cradley Heath office.