Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders
Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders are emergency measures to help keep victims of domestic abuse safe.
Overview
Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs) and Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) are legal tools introduced under the Crime and Security Act 2010. They provide quick, short‑term protection for people experiencing domestic abuse. They are especially useful when the criminal justice process is still ongoing, or when a suspect has been released without charge or with a caution.
Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN)
A Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) is an emergency notice issued by the police when someone has used or threatened violence. It can be used in any domestic abuse investigation where there is evidence of risk. DVPNs are especially helpful in extreme cases, such as when a suspect is on bail and there remains a risk to the victim.
A DVPN does not replace criminal action. Instead, it provides short‑term protection to prevent further harm. It also helps bring together support from different agencies, including specialist domestic abuse services. This approach can give victims the space and confidence to re‑engage with support and consider their next steps.
Key features
- immediate protection: a DVPN gives short‑term safety to victims if the suspect is released without charge or receives a caution.
- victim’s consent not required: police can issue a DVPN without the victim’s consent or support, but they must consider and record the victim’s views.
- history of abuse: a DVPN can be issued even if this is the first reported incident of abuse.
- supports joint working: DVPNs help police and support services work together to protect victims.
When a DVPN can be issued
All of the following must apply:
- the perpetrator is aged 18 or over
- on the balance of probabilities, they have used or threatened violence
- protection is needed to prevent the victim from further violence or threats of violence.
How long a DVPN lasts
A DVPN lasts for 48 hours (not counting Sundays or public holidays). During that time, police must apply to a Magistrates’ Court for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) which can be no less than 14 days and up to 28 days.
Conditions may include stopping the perpetrator from:
- contacting the victim
- visiting or returning to the victim’s home
- going near a specific address
Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)
A DVPO is granted by a Magistrates’ Court after a DVPN has been issued. A DVPO can stop the perpetrator from contacting the victim or returning to their home for up to 28 days. It does not require a criminal conviction and can be granted even if the victim does not agree.
Breaching a DVPO is a criminal offence, and the perpetrator can be arrested.
Enforcement
Breaching a DVPN is not a criminal offence, but police can arrest the perpetrator for the breach. Breaching a DVPO is a criminal offence. A perpetrator can be imprisoned for up to two months or fined £50 per day (up to £5,000) for breaching a DVPN or DVPO.
There is no automatic power of entry for breaches, but police may have other powers depending on the circumstances.
Comparison table: DVPNs vs DVPOs
| Feature | DVPN | DVPO |
|---|---|---|
| Who issues | Police | Magistrates’ Court |
| Duration | 48 hours (excluding Sundays & public holidays) | Up to 28 days |
| Is victim’s consent required? | No (but views must be documented) | No |
| Criminal conviction required? | No | No |
| Consequence of breach | Power of arrest; up to two months imprisonment or £50 for every day that the person has breached up to a maximum of £5,000 fine | Power of arrest; up to two months imprisonment or £50 for every day that the person has breached up to a maximum of £5,000 fine |
Conclusion
Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs) and Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) provide fast, short‑term protection for people at risk of domestic abuse. They help close the gap between an incident being reported and longer‑term safeguarding being put in place.
These orders allow police and the courts to act quickly, even if there has not yet been a criminal charge or if the victim does not feel able to support further action. This reduces the risk of further harm and helps ensure a coordinated, multi‑agency response to keep victims safe.
Related links