The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 came into force on 25 November 2008 and specialist courts will be designated in areas where most cases are expected to arise.
The purpose of the Act is to give family courts the power to prevent attempts to force someone into a marriage where they do not consent. If such a marriage has already taken place the court will be able to make orders to protect the victim while helping to remove them from the situation (similar to injunctive relief).
Recognising that vulnerability may prevent victims being able to apply in their own right, the Act allows interested third parties to apply with the leave of the court on behalf of the victim.
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