What is a Harassment Injunction?
A harassment injunction is a type of court order designed to protect individuals from unwanted and distressing behaviour. It legally requires the person responsible for the harassment – sometimes called the respondent – to stop actions that cause alarm, distress, or fear. This could include a wide range of behaviours, such as persistent unwanted contact, following someone, sending threatening messages, or repeatedly showing up at a person’s home or workplace.
The law recognises that harassment can take many forms. Examples of conduct covered by a harassment injunction include stalking, repeated phone calls or texts, verbal abuse, threats, or any behaviour that makes someone feel unsafe or intimidated. These orders can be especially important in situations involving family or domestic abuse, where they can prohibit the harasser from contacting or approaching the victim, their home, or even certain places they regularly visit.
Harassment injunctions are granted under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, which sets out clear legal protections for anyone experiencing ongoing unwanted behaviour. If the person named in the injunction breaches its terms, it is considered a criminal offence. This means the police can arrest the individual, and they may face penalties such as fines or imprisonment.
If you are experiencing stalking or persistent unwanted behaviour, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take. To learn more about the different legal protections against stalking and harassment available in the UK, you can explore further information and support services designed to help keep you safe.
Who Can Apply for a Harassment Injunction?
Anyone who is experiencing harassment, stalking, or unwanted behaviour that causes distress can apply for a harassment injunction in the UK. This legal protection is available to a broad range of individuals, not just those in close personal relationships. If you are being repeatedly targeted – whether through unwanted contact, threats, or intimidating actions – you may be eligible to seek an injunction under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. This law is designed to protect people from ongoing harassment and similar conduct.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Victims of harassment or stalking: If someone is harassing or stalking you – whether in person, online, or through other means – you can apply for an injunction to stop their behaviour.
- Victims of domestic abuse: Harassment injunctions are commonly used in situations involving domestic abuse. If you are experiencing controlling, threatening, or violent behaviour from a partner, ex-partner, or family member, you have legal options for protection. For further information on the types of support and legal remedies available, visit our page on domestic abuse support and legal options or find guidance on domestic abuse.
- Neighbour disputes: Harassment injunctions are also used in cases where harassment occurs between neighbours, such as repeated noise complaints, threats, or intimidation. To better understand your rights and options in these situations, see our guide on harassment between neighbours.
Can someone apply on your behalf?
In some cases, a family member or representative (such as a legal guardian or solicitor) can apply for a harassment injunction on behalf of a victim, especially if the victim is unable to do so themselves due to age, disability, or vulnerability. For example, parents can apply on behalf of their children, or support services may assist those who need extra help through the legal process.
Practical advice for applicants
- Keep a detailed record of all incidents of harassment, including dates, times, and descriptions of what happened. This evidence can support your application.
- If you feel threatened or in immediate danger, contact the police as well as seeking an injunction.
- You do not have to wait until harassment becomes severe; repeated unwanted behaviour that causes alarm or distress is enough to seek legal protection.
For a full explanation of the legal framework and your rights, you can review the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. If your situation involves domestic abuse, additional guidance and support are available through domestic abuse.
Understanding who can apply for a harassment injunction is the first step towards protecting yourself from unwanted behaviour. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, seeking legal advice or support from relevant organisations can help clarify your options.
How to Apply for a Harassment Injunction
How to Apply for a Harassment Injunction
If you are experiencing harassment, stalking, or repeated unwanted behaviour, a harassment injunction can provide vital legal protection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to apply for a harassment injunction in the UK.
1. Understand the Legal Framework
Harassment injunctions are issued under the Harassment Act 1997, which is designed to protect individuals from persistent harassment, including stalking and threatening behaviour. The Act allows victims to seek a court order (an injunction) to stop the harasser from continuing their actions.
2. Gather Evidence
To support your application, you will need to provide evidence of the harassment. This can include:
- Written records or a diary of incidents (dates, times, details)
- Text messages, emails, or social media messages
- Photographs, videos, or audio recordings
- Witness statements from people who have seen or heard the harassment
The more detailed and organised your evidence, the stronger your application will be.
3. Decide Where to Apply
Harassment injunctions are usually applied for in the county court, but in some cases, you may need to apply to the High Court – particularly if your case is complex or urgent. The court will review your evidence and decide whether to issue an injunction.
4. Complete the Application
You will need to fill in the relevant court forms, outlining the details of the harassment and the protection you are seeking. Court staff can provide guidance on the forms, but they cannot give legal advice.
If you are unsure about the process or your eligibility, you may wish to seek legal advice. Legal aid may be available to help with your application. For more information about eligibility and the legal framework, refer to the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012.
5. Apply for an Emergency Injunction (If Needed)
If you are in immediate danger or there is a risk of serious harm, you can apply for an emergency injunction. This can be granted without notifying the person you are seeking protection from (known as a “without notice” or ex parte application). The court will consider the urgency and may grant a temporary injunction until a full hearing can take place.
6. Attend the Court Hearing
Once your application is submitted, the court will set a date for a hearing. You will need to attend and present your evidence. The alleged harasser will also have an opportunity to respond. If the court is satisfied that harassment has occurred and may continue, it can issue an injunction to protect you.
7. After the Injunction Is Granted
If the court grants an injunction, the order will set out what the harasser is prohibited from doing (for example, contacting you or coming near your home or workplace). Breaching an injunction is a criminal offence and can lead to arrest or further legal action.
Additional Support and Reporting
Applying for a harassment injunction can feel overwhelming, but support is available. You may wish to seek advice from a solicitor or from support organisations. If you’re unsure where to start, learn more about how to report stalking or harassment or how to report domestic abuse and get help.
Taking action early and gathering strong evidence can help you secure the protection you need. For more detailed information about the law and your rights, see the Harassment Act 1997 and the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012. If your situation is urgent or complex, consider whether the High Court may be the appropriate venue for your application.
What Happens After a Harassment Injunction is Granted?
When a harassment injunction is granted by the court, it immediately places legal restrictions on the person who has been harassing you (the respondent). The main aim is to protect you from further unwanted behaviour, such as stalking, threatening messages, or repeated contact.
Legal Effects on the Harasser
The injunction will set out specific terms that the respondent must follow. Common restrictions include:
- Prohibiting them from contacting you directly or indirectly (such as through social media, texts, or third parties).
- Banning them from coming near your home, workplace, or other places you regularly visit.
- Preventing them from engaging in any further acts of harassment or intimidation.
These terms are legally binding. If the respondent breaches any part of the injunction, they are committing a criminal offence and can face serious consequences.
Duration and Extensions
Harassment injunctions are usually granted for a fixed period, often ranging from six months to a year, depending on your circumstances and the severity of the harassment. However, the court can extend the injunction if you still feel at risk when it is due to expire. You can also apply to vary the terms if your situation changes – either to strengthen the restrictions or to adjust them if needed.
Enforcement and Police Involvement
If the respondent breaks any of the terms set out in the injunction, this is known as a breach. Under the Harassment Act 1997, breaching an injunction is a criminal offence. You should report any breach to the police immediately. The police have the power to arrest the respondent, and the court can impose further penalties, which may include fines or imprisonment.
What to Do If the Injunction Is Breached
If you believe the respondent has violated the injunction:
- Contact the police straight away. Provide them with as much detail as possible, including any evidence such as messages, phone calls, or sightings.
- Keep a record of all incidents related to the breach, including dates, times, and descriptions of what happened.
- Inform your solicitor or legal adviser if you have one, as they can help you navigate the next steps and support you through any further court proceedings.
Remember, the law is on your side. The court and police take breaches of harassment injunctions very seriously and are there to help keep you safe. For more detailed information about your rights and the legal process, you can refer to the Harassment Act 1997, which explains the protections available under UK law.
Harassment Injunctions and Related Legal Orders
Harassment injunctions are legal orders designed to protect individuals from unwanted behaviour such as persistent harassment, threats, or stalking. These injunctions are part of a wider set of legal protections available in the UK to help victims feel safe and supported. Understanding how harassment injunctions compare with other legal orders, such as Stalking Protection Orders (SPO), can help you choose the most suitable option for your situation.
How Do Harassment Injunctions Work?
A harassment injunction is typically issued by a civil court under the Harassment Act 1997. This legislation makes it unlawful for someone to pursue a course of conduct that amounts to harassment of another person. If you are experiencing repeated unwanted contact, threats, or behaviour that causes you distress or fear, you can apply to the court for an injunction. The court can then order the person responsible to stop their behaviour, and breaching this order is a criminal offence.
Harassment Injunctions vs. Stalking Protection Orders (SPO)
While harassment injunctions and Stalking Protection Orders (SPO) both offer protection from harmful behaviour, there are important differences between them:
- Harassment Injunctions are usually civil orders that you can apply for yourself if you are being harassed. They are often used in situations where there is an ongoing pattern of unwanted behaviour, but the police may not be directly involved at the outset.
- Stalking Protection Orders (SPO), on the other hand, are generally sought by the police when there is evidence of stalking. SPOs can be used at an earlier stage – even before a criminal conviction – and provide immediate protection to victims while the police investigate further.
Choosing between these orders often depends on the nature of the behaviour you are experiencing and whether the police are already involved. For example, if you are being stalked by someone you do not know well and the police are investigating, an SPO might be more appropriate. If you are facing ongoing harassment from a neighbour or acquaintance and want to take civil action directly, a harassment injunction may be the better route.
Legal Context and Additional Protections
Harassment injunctions fit within a broader framework of stalking and harassment protection laws in the UK. The Harassment Act 1997 sets out the legal basis for these protections, making it a criminal offence to harass someone and allowing courts to grant injunctions to prevent further harm. This means that victims of harassment or stalking have several legal tools at their disposal, depending on their circumstances.
If you are unsure which type of order is right for you, or if you need advice on how to apply, it may help to learn more about the available stalking and harassment protection options. Each order has its own procedures, requirements, and enforcement mechanisms, so understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about your safety and legal rights.
For a comprehensive overview of the legislation that underpins harassment injunctions, you can read more about the Harassment Act 1997. This resource explains the law in detail, including the penalties for breaching an injunction and the protections available to victims.
If you are experiencing harassment or stalking, remember that legal protection is available, and there are steps you can take to safeguard yourself and seek support.
Support and Assistance for Victims
Victims of harassment and domestic abuse are not alone – there is a wide range of support and assistance available across the UK to help you stay safe, recover, and rebuild your life. Whether you are experiencing stalking, repeated unwanted contact, or any form of threatening behaviour, it’s important to know that help is available at every stage.
Support Services
Specialist support services offer practical advice, emotional support, and guidance tailored to your situation. Many organisations provide confidential helplines, counselling, and advocacy to help you understand your rights and options. If your experience of harassment is linked to a personal relationship or domestic setting, domestic abuse support services can provide additional help, including safety planning and access to emergency accommodation.
Financial and Housing Assistance
Escaping harassment or abuse sometimes means leaving your home or facing financial hardship. There are schemes and grants available to help victims secure safe housing, cover essential costs, and access benefits. For more details about what help is available, see our guide on financial and housing assistance for abuse victims. Local authorities can also offer emergency accommodation and may help with longer-term rehousing if you are at risk.
Accessing Help from Charities and Legal Services
Charities dedicated to supporting victims of harassment can assist with emotional support, advocacy, and navigating the legal system. Many offer free or low-cost legal advice, helping you understand how to apply for a harassment injunction and what evidence you may need. Legal aid may be available if you cannot afford a solicitor, especially if you are at risk of harm.
Your local council can provide information about local support services, safe accommodation, and emergency grants. Police and social services can also help if you are in immediate danger.
Reporting and Getting Help
If you feel threatened or unsafe, do not hesitate to seek help. Reporting harassment can be daunting, but it is an important step toward protection and recovery. For a step-by-step guide on how to report abuse and get help, including what to expect when you contact the police or other agencies, see our dedicated resource.
Take Action Early
The sooner you reach out for help, the more options you will have to protect yourself and begin the recovery process. Support services are confidential and non-judgemental, and their primary goal is your safety and well-being. Remember, you do not have to face harassment alone – specialist help is available to guide you through every step, from seeking legal protection to finding a safe place to live and accessing ongoing support.
