Northern Ireland · 2021
Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (NI) 2021
Protects: Partners, ex-partners and family members aged 16+.
Information only. This is not legal advice. Court procedures and the law change. Always confirm with a solicitor, Citizens Advice, or a domestic abuse advocate before acting.
Summary
Creates the NI offence of engaging in a course of abusive behaviour. Covers controlling/coercive behaviour, including psychological, financial and emotional abuse. Maximum 14 years on indictment.
Key provisions
s.1 — Offence
Course of behaviour reasonable person would consider likely to cause physical or psychological harm.
Aggravation
Aggravation where conduct directed at or involves a child.
What this Act affects
The specific protective court orders and decision points this Act creates or feeds — with the exact statutory section.
Course of abusive behaviour offence (NI)
s.1Decision point: criminal charge (up to 14 years on indictment) feeding bail, NMO and restraining orders.
Child aggravation (NI)
s.8Decision point: aggravation where conduct directed at or involves a child.