An Garda Síochána is available to help and support anyone who is a victim of domestic or sexual violence. If you are subjected to this kind of violence or abuse, or if you know someone who is, you should contact your local Garda station, or in an emergency call 999/112.

An Garda Síochána continues to attach the highest priority to domestic abuse incidents, including through ‘Operation Faoiseamh’, a proactive initiative designed to ensure victims of domestic abuse are supported and protected.

Domestic abuse incidents, including coercive control, will continue to receive highest priority response for service by gardaí. Increasing numbers of gardai are on our streets and in our communities and they are ready to assist and protect victims of domestic abuse.

For information, support and resources in relation to domestic and sexual violence, please see the An Garda Síochána website.

The Courts will deal with urgent cases involving domestic violence applications as a priority, so if you need a protection or interim barring order contact your local court office.

While asking for help for a domestic abuse situation can be difficult, Courts Service staff know what to do. All you need to say is ‘I need to apply for a domestic violence order’. Courts Service staff are fully trained and can help guide you through the process.

If you have a solicitor representing you please contact them to discuss your situation. A list of solicitors is available at The Law Society’s website.

More information on applications for protection orders and barring orders and the Courts Process is available at The Court’s Website.

Legal Aid Board staff can also provide you with information on how to apply for legal and mediation services, the financial eligibility criteria, the merits criteria, what mediation is, and how it works.

For further information on Legal Aid Board services, please visit The Legal Aid Board’s website.