Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can occur in all types of relationships (including same sex, de facto, marriage and other domestic relationships) however it is not a normal part of domestic or family life.
Domestic violence can include:
- Wilful Injury – such as hitting, punching or choking;
- Wilful Damage – including as breaking possessions, scratching your car or hurting pets;
- Intimidation or Harassment – such as repeated telephone calls, constant watching or following/stalking;
- Indecent Behaviour – including forced or unwanted sexual contact or activity; or
- A threat to commit any of the acts mentioned above.
We can help you obtain a Protection Order to try to prevent further violence occurring. The Application is made in the Magistrates Court and a Protection Order will be made if the Magistrate is satisfied that there has been violence and it is likely to happen again.
The Order tells the Respondent (the person who was violent towards you) that domestic violence will not be tolerated. Once the Order is made the Respondent must be of good behaviour and not commit acts of domestic violence towards you. Children can also be included in the Order. We can also assist you in defending a Protection Order if you have been named the Respondent. This may involve either a trial or negotiating an agreement.