IrelandI'm experiencing domestic violence. How do I get a safety order?
You can apply for a safety order in the District Court if you are in a domestic relationship with the respondent and fear further violence. The order prohibits the respondent from using violence, threatening you, or contacting you.
What the Law Says
The Domestic Violence Act 2018 gives people experiencing domestic violence the right to apply for a safety order through the District Court. This order offers legal protection by restricting the abuser’s behaviour.
A safety order can be granted if you are in a 'domestic relationship' with the person you’re applying against — this includes spouses, civil partners, cohabitants (living together as a couple), parents of the same child, or relatives.
The court must be satisfied that there is a risk of further domestic violence and that the order is necessary for your safety. You do not need to prove that violence has already occurred — fear of it is enough, provided it’s reasonable.
The order prohibits the respondent from committing domestic violence, threatening it, or communicating with you — unless the order allows limited contact (e.g., about children). It may also include conditions like staying away from your home or workplace.
Statutory TextA safety order is an order of the District Court prohibiting a respondent from committing domestic violence on the applicant or a dependent person, from entering or remaining in the family home or other specified premises, and from communicating with the applicant or a dependent person.
— Domestic Violence Act 2018, s. 6 — Safety orders
What to Do
Go to your local District Court office or ask a solicitor to help you fill out Form DV1 (Application for a Safety Order).
Submit the form — there is no fee, and you can request an interim (temporary) safety order the same day if you’re in immediate danger.
Attend the court hearing — you’ll give evidence, and the judge will decide whether to grant the order. The respondent does not need to be present for an interim order.
If granted, the order takes effect immediately and can last up to 5 years. Breaching it is a criminal offence punishable by up to 12 months in prison or a €4,000 fine.
Contact support services like Women’s Aid (1800 341 900) or the National Domestic Violence Helpline for free advice, safety planning, and legal assistance.
Sources
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JapanNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.