Forced Marriages

A forced marriage should not be confused with an arranged marriage in which families take a role in finding a suitable marriage partner; and the marriage is entered into freely and with the consent of both parties.

A forced marriage, may involve pressure and abuse are used, and does not have the valid consent of both people. 

In a forced marriage, a party may be put under physical and emotional pressure to enter into the marriage.  In some cases, parties are taken abroad without knowing that they are to be forced into a marriage.

How emeryjohnson can help?

If you feel that you, or someone you know, may be forced into a marriage, emeryjohnson will be able to assist you.  From 25th November 2008, family courts are able to make a Forced Marriage Protection Order to protect someone from being forced in a marriage.  An order can also be made to protect someone who is already in a forced marriage, to help remove them from the situation they are in.

Your emeryjohnson solicitor will help you to take the steps to obtain a Forced Marriage Protection Order.  There are different types of orders the court may make, such as: -

The Court is able to make an order without having to notify anyone else.  It is also possible for someone to apply for an order on behalf of a victim, with the permission of the Court.

Leicester County Court is one of the designated courts able to deal with such applications.  This will enable your emeryjohnson solicitor to deal with your application quickly and efficiently.

A Forced Marriage Protection Order will not end a forced marriage.  You may need to obtain an annulment or a divorce.  However, your emeryjohnson solicitor will be able to assist you in ending your marriage.

If you are a victim of a forced marriage or know someone who is, then please contact emeryjohnson solicitors.  We will take immediate action to help and protect you.