Honour-Based Violence & Forced Marriage

Honour-based abuse is a form of control or punishment aimed at enforcing cultural and religious codes of behaviour. At the heart of this izzat, a term used in some communities to describe a family’s image and integrity.

Women and girls are predominantly (but not exclusively) the victims of honour-based abuse. They may be considered to have brought shame on their families by not adhering to rules set by other family or community members, whether through their dress, relationships, sexual orientation or by defying authority.

Punishments can include having children removed, earnings or benefits taken, being prevented from attending medical appointments, or being isolated from friends and family.

In some cases, families believe the only way of making someone conform to their code of behaviour is through marriage, which can amount to forced marriage.

Forced marriage is when one or both parties enter marriage without their full and free consent. It is a breach of human rights and a criminal offence punishable by a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment.

There is often an element of duress involved, including physical assault or threats of assault.

Forced Marriage Protection Orders

If you are at risk of (or have been subjected to) forced marriage, you can apply for the urgent legal protection of a Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO).

They are available to victims of threatened or actual physical violence, abduction, psychological, sexual abuse, financial abuse or other forms of coercion into marriage.

A FMPO imposes legally-binding conditions on those trying to force you into the marriage. For example, the order can restrict someone from taking you out of the UK or stop the marriage from taking place.

Orders can be issued on an emergency basis, meaning they come into force almost immediately. They can also be made concurrently to a police investigation or other types of criminal proceedings.

Breaching a FMPO is a criminal offence that can result in up to five years’ imprisonment.

There is no court fee for filing an application, and an application can be made by the victim or by a solicitor on their behalf.

Legal aid for honour-based abuse and forced marriages

Legal aid is usually available for victims of forced marriage and honour-based abuse.

This is means-tested, with upper limits being higher for cases involving FMPOs, meaning the majority of people would qualify.

Please note we do not currently hold a legal aid contract. You can find a legal aid solicitor through the government’s website. Alternatively, get in touch and we can connect you with someone who can help.