Domestic Violence Lawyers in Melbourne

Immediate legal protection and compassionate support when you need it most

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Safe Steps: 1800 015 188 (24/7) 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732

Understanding Family Violence Laws in Victoria

Domestic violence, also known as family violence in Victoria, is a serious issue that affects many families. The Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic) provides comprehensive legal protections for victims and their children. Our directory connects you with experienced domestic violence lawyers in Melbourne who understand the urgency and sensitivity of these matters and can provide immediate legal assistance and ongoing support. These Melbourne family lawyers specialise in urgent protection matters.

Your Safety is Priority

If you're experiencing family violence:

  • • Your safety and that of your children comes first
  • • Legal help is available immediately from Melbourne domestic violence lawyers
  • • You don't have to face this alone
  • • There are safe accommodation options available

What Constitutes Family Violence?

Physical Violence

  • • Hitting, pushing, or shoving
  • • Restraining or confining
  • • Damaging property
  • • Threatening physical harm

Emotional/Psychological

  • • Verbal abuse and intimidation
  • • Threats to harm loved ones
  • • Controlling behavior
  • • Isolation from support

Financial Abuse

  • • Controlling finances
  • • Preventing work/study
  • • Taking money or property
  • • Damaging credit rating

Technology-Based Abuse

  • • Stalking via technology
  • • Sharing intimate images
  • • Monitoring devices/accounts
  • • Online harassment

Intervention Orders in Victoria

Intervention orders (previously called restraining orders) provide legal protection from family violence:

Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO)

Protects family members from violence, including:

  • • Current or former partners
  • • Family members
  • • Children in the family

Personal Safety Intervention Order (PSIO)

Protects from violence by non-family members (stalking, harassment)

How Intervention Orders Work

1. Application Process

You can apply for an intervention order through:

  • • Victoria Police (they can apply on your behalf)
  • • Magistrates' Court or Children's Court
  • • Online application system
  • • With help from Melbourne domestic violence lawyers

2. Interim Orders

Immediate protection can be granted before the full hearing if the court believes you need urgent protection.

3. Conditions

Orders can include conditions such as:

  • • No contact or communication
  • • Staying away from home, work, or school
  • • Not damaging property
  • • Surrendering firearms

4. Breach Consequences

Breaching an intervention order is a criminal offence with serious penalties including imprisonment.

Legal Support Available

Court Support

  • • Assistance with applications
  • • Court representation
  • • Explanation of processes
  • • Advocacy services

Ongoing Protection

  • • Varying or extending orders
  • • Breach proceedings
  • • Safety planning
  • • Referrals to support services

Impact on Family Law Matters

Family violence significantly affects other family law proceedings:

Free Legal Services

If you're experiencing family violence, free legal help is available:

  • • Victoria Legal Aid: 1300 792 387
  • • Women's Legal Service Victoria: 1800 133 302
  • • Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention & Legal Service: 1800 105 303
  • • InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence: 1800 755 988

Support Services & Resources

Crisis Support

  • Safe Steps
    24/7 crisis response
    1800 015 188
  • 1800RESPECT
    National counselling
    1800 737 732

Court Support

  • Court Network
    Court support volunteers
    1800 681 614
  • Victims of Crime
    Helpline & support
    1800 819 817

Specialist Services

  • Men's Referral Service
    Support for men
    1300 766 491
  • Kids Helpline
    Support for children
    1800 551 800

Find Domestic Violence Lawyers in Melbourne

Complete Family Law Support

Family law matters often overlap. Our network of experienced lawyers across Melbourne, Geelong, and all Victorian suburbs can assist with all aspects of your case.

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Our directory includes experienced family lawyers throughout Victoria. Whether you're in the city or regional areas, find qualified legal help near you.

You Deserve Safety and Support

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