DAPNs and DAPOs — the new domestic abuse protection notices and orders (pilot)
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-30
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 created two new police and court powers: the domestic abuse protection notice (DAPN) and the domestic abuse protection order (DAPO). They are designed to replace the older domestic violence protection notice and order (DVPN/DVPO) and to offer stronger, longer protection. They are currently in force only in pilot areas. This guide explains what they are, where they apply, and how they differ from the orders they will replace. It is general information, not legal advice.
What a DAPN is
- Issued on the spot by a senior police officer immediately after a domestic abuse incident
- Gives the victim immediate short-term protection — typically preventing the perpetrator from molesting them and, where relevant, from entering the home
- Bridges the gap until a magistrates' court can consider a full DAPO
What a DAPO is
- Made by a magistrates' court (on police application) or — importantly — can be applied for by victims and third parties (including family members) through the family court in the pilot
- Can impose positive requirements as well as prohibitions — for example requiring the perpetrator to attend a behaviour change programme or to notify the court of a change of address
- Lasts for a specified period, which can be much longer than the old 28-day DVPO maximum
- Breach is a criminal offence, punishable by imprisonment — stronger than the old civil enforcement route
Where DAPNs and DAPOs are available (pilot areas)
Part 3 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 was commenced on a piloted basis from 27 November 2024, with pilot areas added in waves (including Greater Manchester, three London boroughs, Cleveland's authorities, and North Wales). The pilot has been extended to run until 24 November 2026 by The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (Commencement No. 6, 8 and 9 and Saving Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations 2026. Check the current gov.uk guidance for the exact list of pilot areas before relying on this.
DAPN/DAPO vs the old DVPN/DVPO
| Feature | DVPN/DVPO (old) | DAPN/DAPO (new) | |---|---|---| | Maximum duration | 28 days | Longer, court-specified | | Positive requirements | No | Yes (e.g. behaviour programmes) | | Who can apply | Police only | Police, victims, third parties (family court route) | | Breach | Civil enforcement / contempt | Criminal offence | | Test | Violence or threat of violence | Broader domestic abuse definition (Domestic Abuse Act 2021) |
If you don't live in a pilot area
The older powers remain available: police can issue a DVPN and apply for a DVPO under the Crime and Security Act 2010 (up to 28 days), and you can apply to the family court for a non-molestation order and an occupation order under the Family Law Act 1996. See our dedicated guides on both.
How to apply for a DAPO in a pilot area
- Police route: after an incident, ask the officer or the force's domestic abuse unit about a DAPN and DAPO
- Family court route (where available in the pilot): apply on the DAPO application form to the family court; you may be able to get legal aid (non-means-tested for protective injunctions, subject to evidence requirements) or apply without a fee — check the current guidance
- If you are in immediate danger, call 999
Official links
- DAPNs and DAPOs — official gov.uk guidance (pilot areas)
- Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Domestic Abuse Act 2021 commencement schedule (gov.uk)
- Non-molestation orders (gov.uk)
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
YourFamilyCase.co.uk is an independent information directory — we are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the Home Office, MoJ, police forces, or gov.uk. This page is general information and is not legal advice. Pilot areas and commencement dates change — always check the current gov.uk guidance.
Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.