Dependable, reliable, and empathetic domestic abuse advice
If you have left an abusive relationship, or you are starting to question whether your relationship is healthy, our team of compassionate domestic abuse experts are here to listen without judgement and offer clear support and advice to help you stay safe.
A non-molestation order is a court order prohibiting the other person from abusing or harassing you or your children. Court guidance in force since 12 January 2026 favours plain terms that are easy to enforce, such as no contact, staying away from where you live and not tracking where you are. Breaching a non-molestation order is a criminal offence.
An occupation order decides who can live in the family home. It can require someone to leave, or keep them away from the home and the area around it. Who can apply, and for how long, depends on your circumstances, such as who owns or rents the home.
Both orders are applied for on the same form, the FL401, and there is no court fee. If you are concerned that the other party may do something that requires emergency action, please let us know as soon as possible so we can advise you as to your options.
Sometimes the court will make an order without notice, which means the other person is not told about the application until after the order is made. These orders are the exception, though that does not mean they are rare. Court guidance in force since 12 January 2026 says a non-molestation order may be made without notice where the evidence suggests a pattern of coercive or controlling behaviour and the court thinks it likely that you could be pressured into withdrawing your application.
There is also a newer order, the domestic abuse protection order, which can combine contact bans, stay-away terms and rules about who lives in the family home in one order. We’ll tell you whether it’s available to you and whether it suits your situation.
We understand how difficult it can be to take the first step in any family matter, so we are here to handle any enquiries with sensitivity and understanding, providing a reassuring presence from the outset.
We will schedule a free initial consultation via Teams call for a time that suits you. At this stage, you will be introduced to a member of our outstanding legal team, who will be able to offer initial information regarding your matter and the next steps to formally instruct us. Please be aware that before your initial consultation, you will be asked to provide preliminary information via an intake form, and ID, anti-money laundering, and conflict checks will be completed.
Once you have instructed us to handle your matter, we will provide you with our letter of engagement and terms of business. These documents explain how we will provide our services and explain how costs are incurred.
Following our instruction, we will provide you with an initial information note, setting out the information discussed in your initial consultation, our preliminary advice, and any pressing first steps to be made.
Throughout your matter we will draw on our wealth of experience and expertise to provide comprehensive continued advice and representation. We take a non-confrontational approach to the unique needs and goals of every client, and take non-confrontational, constructive, and practical approach to matters.
We take pride in communicating clearly and effectively with our clients, so that you are always in control of the direction and strategy we take at each step of your matter. We endeavour to ensure that discussions with every party involved remain respectful and productive, whilst robustly representing your best interests.
If you instruct us to do so, we will assist with the implementation of any Final Orders/ agreements. Upon conclusion of your case, your file will be closed in accordance with our File Storage policy.
We are always on hand to provide further support, should it be required.
From the first call to final resolution, we guide you with care and clarity at every stage.
At Sadler Cross, we help individuals and families move forward with confidence during times of emotional and legal uncertainty. Whether you’re facing a separation, navigating sensitive family matters, or simply need honest guidance, we’re here to listen, support and advise without pressure or judgement.
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Read why we have 240+ 5 star reviews! Real words from real people we’ve supported through challenges, change, and everything in between.
I do not have the words to show you how much you have helped me through the last 5 months. You have gone above and beyond which made me feel listened to, supported and you gave me hope when I really needed this. You are a brilliant solicitor and I am so pleased you were mine. You watched my back and made me feel safer at a very vulnerable time in my life. This is priceless.
Senior Partner, Solicitor, and Accredited Family Mediator
We know that taking the first step can feel daunting. Whether you need advice, reassurance, or simply someone to listen we’re ready when you are.
Sadler Cross Family Law is the trading name of Sadler Cross Family Law Limited, authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA number 805863). Registered in England and Wales, company number 12764066. Registered office: C/O Streets, Orderly House, Dragoon Road, Colchester CO2 7FU. VAT number 385 1758 62.