Legal issues
On conviction
Sentencing Act 2020, sections 343 to 358: the court must be satisfied the order is necessary to protect the public, or particular members of the public, from sexual harm.
On application
Sexual Offences Act 2003, section 103A: police can apply to the magistrates' court in respect of a qualifying offender.
Terms
Courts look closely at internet and device terms, which must be workable. Blanket bans on the internet are rarely proportionate; monitoring and disclosure terms are more common.
Evidence that matters
The prosecution must justify each term. Evidence about your work, family and use of technology helps show which terms are disproportionate.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Before the hearing
- Get the draft order in advance and check each term.
- Identify how terms would affect work, family contact and daily life.
- Propose narrower alternatives.
What happens next
The order runs from the date made, alongside any notification requirements. You can apply to vary, renew or discharge it.
Immediate steps
- Read every term and ask if anything is unclear.
- Do not guess: if unsure whether something is allowed, ask before doing it.
What should you send us?
Send the draft or final order, the sentencing remarks and details of how the terms affect you.