Restraining Orders
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance outlines the law and procedures related to restraining orders, including the conditions under which they can be applied for following a conviction or acquittal. It emphasizes the importance of victim input, the necessity of a protective approach, and the procedural requirements for prosecutors. Key topics include the drafting of orders, duration, and consequences of breaches.
Key points
- Prosecutors should consider applying for restraining orders at the outset of a case.
- Restraining orders aim to protect victims, not to punish defendants.
- Victim views are crucial in the application for restraining orders.
- The court evaluates evidence to determine necessity for an order after acquittal.
- Orders must be clear, precise, and proportionate to the harm addressed.
Public-interest factors
- Protecting victims from harassment
- Ensuring safety during legal proceedings
- Upholding the rights of victims in the justice system
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.