England & Wales · 2015
Modern Slavery Act 2015
Protects: Victims of slavery, servitude, forced labour or human trafficking — overlaps with intimate-partner coercion and so-called 'honour'-based abuse.
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
Section 1 (slavery/servitude) and section 2 (trafficking) can apply in DA contexts of extreme control, exploitation or transport. Statutory defence (s.45) for victims compelled to commit offences.
Key provisions
s.45 defence
Protects victims from prosecution where the offence was committed as a direct consequence of being a slavery/trafficking victim.
What this Act affects
The specific protective court orders and decision points this Act creates or feeds — with the exact statutory section.
Statutory defence
s.45Decision point: bars prosecution where offence committed as direct consequence of being a slavery/trafficking victim — relevant to coerced offending in DA contexts.
Slavery / Trafficking Risk & Prevention Orders
ss.14–34Court orders restricting trafficking-linked conduct; can apply in 'honour' abuse / coerced marriage transport cases.