Forced Marriage Solicitors and Legal Aid
No one should ever be forced into marriage. If you are being pressured, threatened, or fear that you may be forced into a marriage, you have legal rights and protections. A specialist forced marriage solicitor can help you obtain the protection you need via Legal Aid funded advice (subject to qualifing criteria), ensuring your safety and freedom.
At Tyrer Roxburgh we provide confidential, expert legal support for individuals at risk of forced marriage. Legal Aid is available for victims of forced marriage, and we can act quickly to ensure you receive urgent protection.
What is a Forced Marriage?
A forced marriage is when someone is made to marry against their will due to pressure, threats, or coercion. It is illegal in the UK under the Forced Marriage Act 2007, and victims have the right to legal protection.
A forced marriage is different from an arranged marriage, where both parties freely consent. In a forced marriage, one or both individuals do not consent and may face physical, emotional, or financial pressure to go through with the marriage.
Examples of coercion include:
- Threats or physical violence from family members.
- Emotional blackmail, such as being told the family’s honor depends on the marriage.
- Being taken abroad under false pretences and forced into a marriage.
- Having important documents, such as passports, taken away to prevent escape.
How a specialist Forced Marriage Solicitor Can Help
Applying for a Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO)
We can apply to the Family Court for a Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO), which can:
- Prevent the marriage from taking place (whether in the UK or abroad).
- Stop family members from taking you out of the country.
- Order the return of your passport or travel documents.
- Prevent threats, harassment, or intimidation from those trying to force the marriage.
If an FMPO is breached, it is a criminal offence, and the person responsible can face up to five years in prison.
Emergency Protection and Court Orders
If you are in immediate danger, we can apply for urgent court orders, sometimes without your family being notified (ex parte applications). These orders ensure your immediate protection, giving you time to get to a safe place.
Confidential and Safe Legal Advice
We provide confidential advice and can help you make decisions about your future, whether that involves staying safe in the UK or seeking protection abroad. Everything you tell us is private, and we will never share information without your consent unless required by law to protect you.
Legal Aid is Available
If you are at risk of forced marriage, you may be eligible for Legal Aid to cover your legal costs. This means you could get free legal representation depending on your financial circumstances and the merits of your case. We will help you assess whether you qualify.
Support with Immigration and Travel Concerns
If you are worried about being taken abroad for a forced marriage, we can help you:
- Apply for a passport prevention order to stop you from being taken out of the UK.
- Contact embassies for help if you are already abroad and need assistance returning to the UK.
- Seek asylum if returning to your home country would put you at risk.
What to Do if You Are at Risk of Forced Marriage
If you believe you are at risk, it is important to act quickly. You do not have to go through this alone. Our experienced forced marriage solicitors can help you stay safe and protect your future.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or contact the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) on 020 7008 0151 for urgent help.








































