Predatory marriage

Predatory marriage is an emerging form of exploitation which can happen to anyone.  

Older adults and adults who lack mental capacity are particularly at risk. Common features of this type of abuse are coercion and control and financial abuse. 

The grooming process is often hidden in plain sight. This type of abuse can target anyone, although currently it more commonly affects older women. 

Important to know

  • a person’s existing will is revoked when a marriage takes place, benefiting the new spouse, and is nearly impossible to challenge
  • should there be a power of attorney acting on behalf of a person who is at risk, that attorney is not automatically notified when the person enters into a marriage

If a person does not consent or lacks mental capacity to consent to marriage, that marriage must be viewed as a forced marriage. The reason for the marriage is not relevant. 

You can report a forced marriage in multiple ways:

Please note that the multi-agency statutory guidance for dealing with forced marriage highlights that a person who does not have mental capacity, cannot consent to marriage. Keep this in mind if you are trying to stop a forced marriage or you need help yourself to leave a forced marriage.