FL435 form: Response to a Non-Molestation Order

The FL435, Response to a Non-Molestation Order, is a court form introduced by the President of the Family Division's Guidance 2026: Non-Molestation Orders under the Family Law Act 1996, which came into effect on 12 January 2026. It is Annex 2 to that guidance and is served on respondents together with a without-notice non-molestation order.

Why was the FL435 introduced?

The guidance notes that many respondents do not attend return hearings or do not oppose the order continuing. The FL435 lets you tell the court in advance whether you agree to the order continuing or intend to challenge it, so the court can manage the hearing properly and use its time well.

FL435 deadline

What does the FL435 ask?

The form asks for your details and the case details (court, case number, parties), and then your position on the order. In broad terms you are asked to indicate whether you:

• agree to the order continuing (you can do this without admitting the allegations);
• would be willing to give an undertaking instead;
• agree but want changes to the terms or length of the order; or
• oppose the order and want the court to decide the issues.

You may also be asked about other relevant proceedings (such as child arrangements cases or police investigations), whether you need an interpreter or other adjustments at court, and whether you have a solicitor.

Always use the version of the form you were served with, and read the notes that come with it.

How to complete the FL435: practical tips

1. Use your case number exactly as shown on the order.
2. Be clear about your choice. If you want to agree "without admissions", say so in those words.
3. Don't write your full story on the FL435 unless the form asks for it. Your detailed account normally goes in a separate response statement if the case is contested.
4. Mention children, any existing family court case, and any child handovers the order affects.
5. Keep a copy and note when and how you sent it (email receipt or proof of postage).
6. Send it to the court named on the order, using the court's email or postal address on your papers. Follow any instruction about sending a copy to the applicant or their solicitor, but never contact the applicant directly if the order forbids it.

Agreeing "without admissions": what it means

At a return hearing the court can deal with the order by agreement without deciding who is right or wrong. If you agree to the order continuing without admissions, no findings of fact are made against you. Many respondents choose this to avoid a stressful contested hearing. But you will still be bound by an order for its full length, so get advice first, particularly if you have a family court case about children, a job that requires checks, or a police matter.

Opposing the order on the FL435

If you tick that you oppose the order, the court will usually give directions at the return hearing, such as filing a written statement and evidence by a set date and listing a further hearing. It is sensible to start gathering evidence immediately: messages, call logs, emails, bank records, social media posts and the names of witnesses.

Free help typing up your FL435 response

Many respondents tell us they don't know what to write. Use our free referral form to tell us your position and your side of events. An advisor will contact you, help you get your FL435 and response statement into clear, court-ready wording, and check whether you qualify for legal aid.

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Frequently asked questions