FGM Solicitors
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Solicitors
According to the World Health Organization, FGM involves “all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.” It is also known as “female circumcision” or “cutting.”
The NSPCC estimates that nearly 137,000 women and girls are affected by FGM in England and Wales.
FAQs
Can I get protection against FGM from the courts?
The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (covering England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) makes FGM illegal in the UK. Those found guilty may face a prison sentence of between 5 and 14 years.
Our family and child care solicitors can help you secure a Female Genital Mutilation Protection Order (FGMPO). Applications for FGMPOs can be made on an emergency basis the same day to ensure immediate protection, even if you are overseas.
How will the FGMPO order protect me?
A Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO) can prevent any individual or individuals from making arrangements or discussing marriage with you, including religious marriages or engagements, traveling with you abroad, or pressuring you into a marriage. The court will consider your specific circumstances and make necessary orders to prevent a forced marriage.
Am I entitled to legal aid for my Female Genital Mutilation Protection Order matter?
Legal aid may be available depending on your financial circumstances and the merits of your case. Our experienced solicitors will support you through this process.
Getting Help
Fahrenheit Law Solicitors provide confidential and reassuring advice on your options. We can quickly arrange a consultation to discuss your concerns and explore the availability of legal aid.
We’ve supported many individuals and parents of children at risk of FGM, including cases where children were at risk of being abducted abroad for the procedure. The first step is to secure court orders to prevent the children from being removed from the country and then secure orders to prevent the FGM from taking place.
In unfortunate cases where children have been removed from the jurisdiction of England and Wales, urgent steps can still be taken to secure orders to prevent FGM and ensure the immediate return of the children.
Fahrenheit Law works with agencies and government officials from foreign countries to ensure the safety of individuals and children at risk of FGM and forced marriages.
