Forced Marriage Solicitors

Yes, forced marriage is illegal under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. It is a criminal offence to force someone to marry against their will, and those found guilty can face up to 7 years in prison. The law also provides protection for those at risk of forced marriage through Forced Marriage Protection Orders.

Signs of a forced marriage include being threatened or coerced into marriage, being taken abroad against your will, having limited contact with family and friends, being closely monitored or controlled, and being forced to marry someone you do not want to. Forced marriage is illegal and can result in imprisonment for up to 7 years.

If you are being forced into marriage, you should seek help immediately. You can contact the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) on +44 (0) 20 7008 0151 or email fmu@fco.gov.uk. Forced marriage is illegal and you have the right to protection and support. The FMU can provide you with advice, support and assistance to prevent the marriage from taking place or to help you leave a forced marriage.

Yes, you can apply for a forced marriage protection order if you are at risk of being forced into a marriage or have already been forced into a marriage. This order can provide protection and prevent others from forcing you into a marriage. You can apply for this order in the family court.

To obtain a forced marriage protection order an application must be made to the Family Court. The applicant must provide evidence of the risk of forced marriage and the order can include provisions to prevent the marriage from taking place, protect the victim from violence or harassment, and require the surrender of passports. The order can be made without the knowledge of the person at risk and can be enforced by the police.

Yes, you may be eligible for legal aid to obtain a forced marriage protection order. Legal aid is available for individuals who meet certain financial eligibility criteria and whose case meets the merits test. You can contact a legal aid provider or the Civil Legal Advice helpline to find out if you are eligible for legal aid.

If someone breaches a forced marriage protection order they can be arrested and prosecuted. The maximum penalty for breaching a forced marriage protection order is five years in prison. The court can also impose fines or community service as a punishment. The victim can also apply for a new or amended order to provide further protection.

Yes, under UK law, you can apply for a forced marriage protection order on behalf of someone else if you have sufficient interest in their welfare. This could include a family member, friend, or professional such as a social worker or teacher. The order can provide protection and prevent a forced marriage from taking place or provide support for someone who has already been forced into a marriage.

Victims of forced marriage can access support from a range of organisations, including the Forced Marriage Unit, which provides confidential advice and assistance to those at risk or already affected by forced marriage. Victims can also seek help from the police, social services, and specialist charities such as Karma Nirvana and the Halo Project. Forced marriage is a criminal offence and victims can report it to the police and seek legal protection through civil or criminal courts.