what it covers

Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling and aggressive behaviour from one adult, towards another, within the context of an intimate or family relationship. There is no single act that qualifies as domestic violence. It can be extreme or subtle; The law surrounding Domestic Violence is governed by the Family Law Act 1996. Domestic Violence can be:

• physical, sexual, psychological or emotional abuse
• financial abuse and social isolation
• controlling behaviour – including controlling finances & access to money
• actual violence or threatened violence
• It can happen to anyone, and in all kinds of relationships – heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. People suffer domestic violence regardless of their social group, class, age, race, disability, sexuality or lifestyle.
• domestic violence can affect children, both in the short and the long term; In some cases the children may be the victims of the violence themselves.
• It is not restricted to women and children; men too are abused by their partners, both male and female.
• All forms of abuse – psychological, economic, emotional, financial and physical are hurtful and frightening, each in it’s own way.

It is a sad reality that many people put up with domestic violence, often for years on end. Most victims of domestic violence tend to suffer in silence, either because they are ashamed or frightened of the consequences of seeking help. Some people justify the reasons why their partner is abusing them and only seek help and protection after some trigger event, like the straw that broke the camels back!

No matter what the reasons are for the abuse, it is unacceptable behaviour and the courts will protect you.

No matter what type of abuse you are suffering and no matter how frightened you may be, we can help!

We have represented hundreds of people, on the receiving end of domestic violence and are experienced in dealing with traumatised clients who are often terrified of their partners. We act very quickly to protect you, often presenting urgent cases in court within hours of having been first approached by our clients.

We are sympathetic, understanding and very approachable. Your circumstances will always be handled in the strictest confidence. If you are unsure about what rights you have or how best to protect yourself, contact us or email us for quick, effective and confidential advice.

what can the court do for me

we can assist you in obtaining a non-molestation injunction from the court, providing you with immediate protection. it may also be possible for the court to provide you with the protection of an occupation order

For detailed statistics on Domestic Violence – see:

Facts and Figures about Domestic Violence

If you want an expert family law divorce lawyer to protect you during marriage breakdown – contact us or email us your questions.