| 释义 |
non-molestation order
A wide-ranging order under the Family Law Act 1996 s 42 that prohibits the respondent from “molesting” the applicant. Molestation is not limited to acts of physical violence but includes conduct that harasses or threatens the applicant. An order can be made against anyone with whom the applicant is “associated”; this includes a spouse or civil partner, a cohabitant, a relative, or any person with whom the applicant has been in an intimate relationship. The order can also be made to protect a relevant child; this will usually be the biological child of the applicant or respondent but also includes any child who is living (or expected to live) with the applicant or respondent. In deciding whether to make the order, the court will look in particular at the need to secure the health, safety, and wellbeing of the applicant or of any relevant child. Breach of such an order is a criminal offence. See also domestic violence; domestic violence protection notice. |