Crisis Readiness
Domestic Violence Protection Orders
How protection orders work in Kenya, what breach means, and what the court can do.
What a protection order can do
- Prohibit contact, threats, harassment, stalking, and violence.
- Restrict access to residence or specified places where necessary for safety.
- Direct emergency relief and related protective terms based on court findings.
Breach and enforcement
- Breach after service of order is a criminal offence.
- Police may arrest without warrant where legal threshold is met.
- Keep copies of order, breach details, and timestamps for enforcement follow-up.
Quick answers
What happens if a protection order is breached
Under the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, breach can lead to a criminal offence with a fine up to KES 100,000, imprisonment up to 12 months, or both.
Can police arrest without a warrant for breach
Yes. The law allows warrantless arrest for suspected breach under defined conditions.
Can I claim compensation in domestic violence proceedings
Yes. The court can award compensation based on injury, costs, loss of earnings, property damage, and related expenses.
Sources and statutes
Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (Cap. 151)
See Sections 22, 23, and 32 for breach penalties, arrest powers, and compensation factors.