Football Banning Order Solicitors

Football Banning Orders are court orders typically issued after a conviction for a football-related offence.
 
These orders can last from three to ten years and include specific conditions you must follow. Violating a Football Banning Order is a criminal offence, punishable by up to six months in prison.
 
In the 2021/22 season, 516 Football Banning Orders were issued. As of July 28, 2022, there were 1,308 active banning orders, with 99.5% of them (1,302) issued to males. Approximately 70% (910) were given to individuals aged 18 to 34, and less than 3% (36) were issued to those under 18.
 
During the same season, there were 2,198 football-related arrests. The most common offences were public disorder (36%) and violent disorder (20%). However, there were only 5.2 arrests per 100,000 attendees at football matches, which is positive news for fans.
 
A Football Banning Order may impose several conditions, such as:
 
  • Banning you from attending football matches, both domestically and internationally.
  • Restricting your access to specific places or areas from two hours before to two hours after a match.
  • In some cases, this includes public transport or entire towns.
  • Requiring you to surrender your passport before international matches.
  • Mandating you to report to a local police station.
While conditions may vary based on the case, many courts use "boilerplate" Banning Orders that include standard conditions.
 
Football Banning Orders were initially introduced in the late 1980s to combat hooliganism, but many fans now face them for minor offences or, in some cases, without any conviction.
 
You can be issued with a Football Banning Order if the court believes a banning order would help prevent future violence or disorder. It is up to the prosecution to prove that the offence was football-related. Relevant offences include:
 
  • Possession of alcohol or being drunk while entering or trying to enter a stadium.
  • Disorderly behavior.
  • Any offence involving violence or threats toward a person or property.
  • Possession of an offensive weapon.
  • Drunk and disorderly conduct.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Throwing missiles at a football match.
  • Indecent or racist chanting.
  • Entering the pitch without permission.
  • Unauthorised ticket sales.
The police can also apply for a Football Banning Order if they believe you have contributed to violence or disorder in the UK or abroad. These applications often rely on police intelligence, even if no formal charges or convictions are made. 
 
If the court believes that issuing an order could prevent future football-related violence or disorder, they will grant one.
 
You can challenge the imposition of a Football Banning Order. Just because an application is made doesn't mean it will be successful. Our solicitors can provide advice to help you contest the order.
 
You may qualify for Legal Aid based on your financial situation. If you don't qualify for means-tested Legal Aid, we can represent you with an affordable fixed fee, so you'll know the cost upfront without any surprises.
 
If you're under investigation for a football-related offence or facing court proceedings, it's essential to instruct a specialist solicitor. They can provide expert advice and representation to help secure the best outcome.
 

The Johnson Partnership (incorporating GV Hale & Co)

Football Banning Order Solicitors

01159 419141



Get in touch with your query or requirements
 
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"Hale for Bail !"


We specialise in dealing with Criminal Defence matters throughout the country and can arrange representation where ever you find yourself.... 

 

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Whether yours is a criminal, fraud, violent crime or bail matter we can help. 

Contact
The Johnson Partnership,
Legal Chambers,
70 Waterdale,
Doncaster,
DN1 3BU


01159 419141
Defence Chambers,
53 Laneham St,
Scunthorpe,
DN15 6PB


01724 859992