Interdicts

An interdict is a court order that tells someone not to do something.  For example that they must stay away from:

• you
• your children
• a specific place such as your home

The court may also be able to attach a power of arrest to the interdict. Your solicitor would need to explain to the court why a power of arrest is needed to protect you.

If you need protection quickly, your solicitor can ask for a temporary emergency interdict (an 'interim' interdict), to be put in place while the court looks at the case.

If someone breaks the order, you can go back to court.  The court will decide what to do about a breach of the order.  This can include finding the person in contempt of court which could mean they go to jail or be given a fine, or both.