No one should have to endure harassment, stalking, or intimidation. If you are experiencing unwanted contact, threats, or persistent distressing behaviour, our harassment solicitors can help.
At Birkett Long, we provide confidential legal advice and can help you secure protection through injunctions, restraining orders, or criminal proceedings. Whether you are facing ongoing harassment, cyberstalking, workplace harassment, or neighbour disputes, we can advise on your legal rights and the best course of action.
What is harassment?
Harassment is unwanted behaviour that causes distress, fear, or alarm. It can take many forms, including:
- Repeated phone calls, messages, or emails.
- Stalking: following, monitoring, or loitering near your home or workplace.
- Threats or intimidation: verbal abuse, blackmail, or coercive control.
- Cyber harassment: online abuse, doxxing, or social media threats.
- Workplace harassment: bullying, discrimination, or sexual harassment.
- Neighbour harassment: ongoing disputes, noise abuse, or intimidation.
Harassment must involve at least two separate incidents to be considered a "course of conduct" under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. If you believe you are being harassed, our harassment solicitors can help you understand your legal options.
Protecting your personal safety
Speak to Karen Johnson, Senior Associate Solicitor, Divorce and Family team.
Why choose Birkett Long harassment solicitors in Essex?
When dealing with harassment, having the right legal support can make all the difference. At Birkett Long, we understand how distressing these situations can be, and our specialist harassment solicitors in Essex are here to provide expert guidance, swift action, and compassionate support.
- Clear, jargon-free advice: we explain your legal options in plain English so you understand every step of the process.
- Confidential and compassionate service: we handle every case with sensitivity, ensuring you feel supported and protected.
- Local presence: our harassment solicitors in Essex are available in Chelmsford, Colchester, Basildon, and London, offering face-to-face and remote consultations.
Accredited specialists: Accredited by the Law Society with LEXCEL and Convenyancing Quality Scheme (CQS).
Meet the Divorce & Family team
Wherever you are in Essex, if you are searching for divorce solicitors near you, Birkett Long is here to help.
Legal protection from harassment
There are civil and criminal remedies available to protect you from harassment, stalking, and intimidation.
Civil remedies: injunctions & compensation
You may be able to apply for a civil injunction to prevent the harasser from continuing their behaviour. This could include:
- Non-contact orders: preventing them from calling, messaging, or approaching you.
- Exclusion orders: restricting them from entering your home, workplace, or specific locations.
- Workplace harassment injunctions: preventing harassment in professional environments.
Additionally, victims can claim compensation for anxiety, emotional distress, and financial loss caused by harassment.
Criminal remedies: prosecution for harassment
Harassment is a criminal offence under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. A person guilty of harassment can face:
- Up to six months in prison and/or a fine for a first offence.
- Up to five years in prison for more severe cases, including threats of violence.
- A criminal restraining order, preventing further contact or harassment.
Unlike a non-molestation order, harassment cases do not require a prior relationship — meaning you can take legal action against a colleague, neighbour, or stranger.
If you are experiencing harassment, our harassment solicitors near you can help secure legal protection.
Harassment FAQs
How quickly can I get legal protection from harassment?
If you are at immediate risk, our harassment solicitors can apply for an emergency injunction the same day. The court may grant a without notice injunction, meaning the harasser is not informed until after the order is in place.
We will assess your case and act as quickly as possible to secure your safety.
What is the difference between a non-molestation order and a harassment injunction?
A non-molestation order applies only to ex-partners or family members and is used in domestic abuse cases. A harassment injunction, however, can be taken against anyone — including neighbours, colleagues, or strangers.
Our harassment solicitors can advise on the most appropriate legal protection for your situation.
Can I take legal action for workplace harassment?
Yes. If you are experiencing harassment at work, you may have grounds to:
- Make a formal complaint to your employer.
- Take legal action under employment law or the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
- Apply for an injunction against a colleague or superior.
If workplace harassment is affecting you, speak to our solicitors for harassment today.
What if I am being harassed online or through social media?
Cyber harassment is increasingly common and can include:
- Threats and intimidation via email or messages.
- Doxxing — sharing private information online.
- Impersonation and fake accounts used to harass someone.
If you are a victim of online harassment, our harassment solicitors can help remove harmful content and take legal action against the perpetrator.
Can I take action if a neighbour is harassing me?
Yes. If a neighbour is intimidating, threatening, or disturbing your peace, you may be able to:
- Apply for a civil injunction to restrict their behaviour.
- Report the issue to local authorities or the police.
- Take legal action under anti-social behaviour laws.
Our harassment solicitors can assess your case and help put an end to the harassment.
