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What is a forced marriage?
A forced marriage is one in which one or both of the parties to the proposed marriage do not, or cannot, consent. It is a marriage that is entered into against one or both parties’ free will.
At Ramsdens, our family team has long-standing experience of providing informed and sympathetic advice to people in difficult circumstances such as these – we are here to support you. There are a number of ways we can help you to be protected, for example, via a Forced Marriage Protection Order, and we will sensitively guide you through the options.
Why are there forced marriages?
A forced marriage differs from an arranged marriage. An arranged marriage occurs with both parties’ consent and, commonly, with the assistance of their parents or a third party (usually a family member/friend) identifying a husband or wife. Although at times the difference between the two may not appear to be clear-cut, it is. If one party says no and/or expresses no wish to marry, then this then becomes forced.
A reluctance to enter into a marriage arranged by parents or other family members can at times result in honour-based violence occurring. Our family law experts at Ramsdens approach this very difficult area with care and sensitivity.
We can ensure you are given the opportunity to be guided through a process to obtain protection, often on an emergency basis.
Find out more about our services by clicking on the links on the right.
What protection can be obtained?
An order known as a Forced Marriage Protection Order can be applied for if one of the following applies:
- You or someone you know is being threatened with a forced marriage
- You have already been forced into marriage
An application can be made by the court to protect you or the person to be protected. We listen very carefully to you and tailor any application to the individual circumstances.
The often urgent nature of these applications means that it may be necessary for you to meet with one of our team the same day. We endeavour to book appointments as soon as possible for those who need help and advice urgently.
In the UK, the Forced Marriage Unit provides practical advice and information to those affected by forced marriage. The unit abroad works with embassy staff to assist victims who may have been held against their will – more information is available here.
