In this article, Tony Collier examines Ireland's new civil restraining order regime and explains how it gives people a practical civil-law route to protection from harassment, threats, or unwanted conduct without needing a criminal prosecution or any prior family or intimate relationship with the respondent. He outlines how the new framework, introduced by the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023 and effective from 2 September 2024, is intended to close a gap in the law, particularly in cases involving neighbours, colleagues, acquaintances, or online harassment.
Tony focuses on the practical operation of these orders, including the lower civil standard of proof, the types of behaviour the courts may restrain, the availability of interim orders, and the consequences of breach. He also highlights the need for proportionality, proper evidence, and fair procedures, while stressing that civil restraining orders are designed to offer a faster, more accessible, and victim-centred form of protection.
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