Month: May 2026

Experiencing harassment, intimidation, threats, or abuse from a partner, former partner, or family member can be incredibly distressing. In situations where someone feels unsafe or vulnerable, legal protection may be available through a Non-Molestation Order.

A Non-Molestation Order is designed to protect individuals and children from abuse or threatening behaviour and can provide immediate legal safeguards where necessary.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we support clients across Northern Ireland with compassionate, confidential, and practical legal advice during what is often an extremely difficult time.

What Is a Non-Molestation Order?

A Non-Molestation Order is a court order that prevents someone from:

• Using or threatening violence
• Harassing, intimidating, or pestering another person
• Contacting someone directly or indirectly
• Attending a person’s home or workplace
• Engaging in abusive or controlling behaviour

The order is intended to provide protection and peace of mind for individuals experiencing domestic abuse or fear of harm.

Importantly, abuse is not limited to physical violence. The courts recognise that emotional, psychological, verbal, coercive, and controlling behaviour can also have a serious impact.

Who Can Apply for a Non-Molestation Order?

You may be eligible to apply if the person causing harm is:

• A current or former spouse
• A partner or ex-partner
• A family member
• Someone you live or have lived with
• The parent of your child

The court must be satisfied that protection is necessary for your safety and wellbeing.

What Behaviour Can a Non-Molestation Order Prevent?

Every order is tailored to the specific circumstances of the case, but common restrictions may include preventing someone from:

• Contacting you by phone, text, email, or social media
• Coming near your home, workplace, or children’s school
• Threatening or intimidating you
• Encouraging others to harass or contact you
• Using abusive language or behaviour

The court can also extend protection to children if required.

Can You Apply Urgently?

Yes.

In urgent situations, it may be possible to apply for an emergency order without the other person being present in court initially. This is known as a without notice application.

The court will consider whether there is an immediate risk of harm before granting temporary protection.

What Happens If the Order Is Breached?

Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a serious matter and can be a criminal offence.

If the order is breached, the police can become involved and the person responsible may face arrest, criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment.

This legal protection is intended to provide reassurance and immediate action where necessary.

How Long Does a Non-Molestation Order Last?

The length of an order depends on the circumstances of the case. Some orders may last for several months, while others can remain in place longer if ongoing protection is needed.

The court may review or extend an order where appropriate.

Do You Need a Solicitor?

While it is possible to apply without legal representation, obtaining advice from a family law solicitor can help ensure the application is prepared correctly and that your safety concerns are clearly presented to the court.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we understand how sensitive and emotional these situations can be. We provide supportive, confidential guidance to help clients secure the protection they need and understand the legal process every step of the way.

If you need advice regarding a Non-Molestation Order or any aspect of family law in Northern Ireland, our team is here to help.

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At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we provide compassionate, expert guidance through all aspects of family law, including financial matters arising from separation and divorce. If you need advice about protecting your financial interests during separation, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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Grandparents often play a hugely important role in a child’s life, providing love, stability, support, and care. However, following a family breakdown or dispute, some grandparents may suddenly find themselves cut off from seeing their grandchildren.

This can be an incredibly upsetting and emotional experience for everyone involved — especially the children.

In Northern Ireland, grandparents do not have automatic legal rights to contact with their grandchildren. However, there are legal options available where maintaining that relationship is in the child’s best interests.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we regularly advise grandparents on their legal position and support families in finding practical solutions wherever possible.

Do Grandparents Have Automatic Rights?

No.

Unlike parents, grandparents do not automatically have parental responsibility or an automatic right to spend time with a grandchild under Northern Ireland law.

However, the courts recognise the valuable role grandparents can play in a child’s life and will consider whether ongoing contact benefits the child’s wellbeing.

Can Grandparents Apply to Court?

Yes.

If informal arrangements cannot be agreed, grandparents can apply to the court for permission to seek a Child Arrangements Order (previously known as Contact or Residence Orders).

The court will first decide whether granting permission to apply is appropriate. In many cases, if a grandparent has had a meaningful and established relationship with the child, permission is likely to be granted.

What Does the Court Consider?

The child’s welfare is always the court’s main priority.

When considering an application, the court may look at:

• The existing relationship between the grandparent and child
• The reasons contact has stopped
• The child’s emotional and physical needs
• Whether contact would benefit the child
• Any history of family conflict or safeguarding concerns
• The potential impact on the child’s routine and stability

The court will focus on what arrangement is in the child’s best interests rather than the wishes of the adults involved.

What Types of Contact Can Be Arranged?

Every family situation is different, and arrangements can vary depending on the circumstances.

Contact may include:

• Regular visits
• Telephone or video calls
• Letters, cards, or messages
• Overnight stays
• Spending time during holidays or special occasions

In some cases, gradual contact arrangements may be introduced to help rebuild relationships.

Is Court Always Necessary?

Not always.

Many families are encouraged to resolve matters through communication, solicitor negotiation, or mediation before court proceedings begin. Reaching an agreement outside court can often reduce stress and preserve family relationships.

However, where communication has broken down completely or contact is being unfairly refused, court intervention may be necessary.

What If There Are Concerns About the Child’s Welfare?

If there are allegations of abuse, neglect, or other safeguarding concerns, the court will carefully investigate before making any decisions.

The safety and wellbeing of the child will always come first.Seeking Legal Advice

Disputes involving grandchildren can be emotionally challenging and sensitive for everyone involved. Understanding your legal position early can help you decide the best course of action.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we provide compassionate and practical advice to grandparents and family members dealing with child contact issues across Northern Ireland.

If you are struggling to maintain contact with your grandchild or would like advice on your legal options, our team is here to help.

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At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we provide compassionate, expert guidance through all aspects of family law, including financial matters arising from separation and divorce. If you need advice about protecting your financial interests during separation, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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