How Can a Football Banning Order (FBO) Be Applied For?
There are two ways the police can apply for a Football Banning Order (FBO):

1. Following a Conviction for a Football-Related Offence (Section 14A)

• If you plead guilty or are found guilty of a football-related offence listed in Schedule 1 of the Football Spectators Act, the prosecution will almost always apply for a FBO.

• This includes even minor offences or cases involving mitigating factors (e.g., age, lack of prior convictions, mental illness).

Challenging a 14A Application:

• You have the right to oppose the application.

• A hearing will be held where both the application and opposition arguments will be considered.

• If the application is denied, the FBO won’t be issued.

• If unsuccessful, the FBO will be issued, but:

  • Prosecution costs won’t increase.

  • Your sentence won’t be extended.

  • The length of the FBO won’t increase.

2. On Complaint by the Police (Section 14B)

• This type of application doesn’t require a conviction and is based on suspicion of causing or contributing to football-related violence or disorder.

• Evidence can include:

  • Relevant previous convictions (with proof of guilt).

  • Suspected involvement in offences (without proof of guilt).

  • Non-football-related incidents (e.g., domestic assault allegations).

• The standard of evidence is lower than criminal cases, allowing ambiguous or unproven information to be included.

The Process for 14B Applications:

• A police officer will deliver reports, statements, and legal documents to your home.

• You’ll be required to attend Court within a few days.

Challenging a 14B Application:

• It is your legal right to challenge the application.

• Police may warn of high costs (often thousands of pounds) if you lose, which can discourage opposition.

• However, with the right legal defence, these applications can be successfully defeated in certain cases.

Expert Legal Support:
Football Law specialises in challenging FBO applications, providing tailored advice and robust representation to help protect your rights and avoid an FBO wherever possible.