DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

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Domestic violence encompasses a broad range of behaviours aimed at controlling, dominating, or instilling fear in another person, thereby compromising their personal safety or wellbeing. These behaviours may include:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Intimidation
• Threats
• Controlling behaviour

Domestic violence can occur within various types of relationships, including:

• Intimate personal relationships
• Family relationships
• Informal care relationships

A Domestic Violence Protection Order is a civil order that prohibits the Respondent from engaging in violent behaviour toward the Aggrieved or Applicant named in the Order.

Key features of a DVO:

• It outlines specific rules and conditions that the Respondent must comply with for a designated period.
• Breaching the conditions of a DVPO carries serious criminal consequences, including potential imprisonment.

Key points about a DVO:

• A DVO is a civil court order and does not appear on the Respondent’s criminal record.
• However, breaching a DVO is a criminal offence, which can result in a permanent criminal record and serious penalties, including imprisonment.

A Temporary Protection Order is issued by a Magistrate temporarily and remains in effect until the Court can decide on the full application for a Domestic Violence Protection Order.