Domestic Violence Lawyers NSW
Expert Representation for AVOs, Assault Charges, and Family Protection
If you are dealing with a domestic violence matter in New South Wales, the stakes are incredibly high. Whether you have been served with an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO), are facing criminal charges, or need protection for your family, you need immediate, specialized legal advice.
At My Criminal Lawyers, our Domestic Violence Lawyers in NSW understand the complexities of the legal system. We provide strategic, non-judgmental, and fierce representation to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
How We Can Help
Domestic violence law in NSW sits at the intersection of criminal law and family law. Our team specializes in both:
- Defending Criminal Charges: We defend clients against charges such as Common Assault, Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, and Stalk/Intimidate.
- Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs): We represent both defendants (contesting an AVO) and persons in need of protection (applying for private AVOs).
- Bail Applications: Urgent assistance for loved ones in custody.
- Family Law Intersections: Managing the impact of DV allegations on parenting orders and property settlements.
Understanding Apprehended Violence Orders (AVO) in NSW
Understanding Apprehended Violence Orders (AVO) in NSW
An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) is the most common legal tool used in domestic violence cases in NSW. It is not a criminal charge itself, but breaching it is a serious criminal offence.
Types of AVOs
- ADVO (Apprehended Domestic Violence Order): Issued when there is a domestic relationship between the parties (partners, family members, housemates).
- APVO (Apprehended Personal Violence Order): Issued between neighbors, colleagues, or acquaintances.
Defending an AVO
If police serve you with a Provisional or Interim AVO, you have options. You can:
- Consent without admission: Agree to the orders without admitting to the allegations (often the fastest resolution).
- Contest the AVO: Proceed to a hearing where the police must prove their case on the “balance of probabilities.”
- Negotiate: Our lawyers frequently negotiate with police prosecutors to withdraw AVOs or amend the conditions to allow you to remain in your home or see your children.
Defending Domestic Violence Criminal Charges
If you have been charged with a domestic violence offence, you risk a criminal record and potential imprisonment. NSW courts take these matters very seriously.
Common Charges We Defend:
- Common Assault (DV): Involves threats or physical contact without serious injury.
- Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (AOABH): Assault resulting in scratches, bruises, or other injuries.
- Stalk or Intimidate: Includes harassment via text, social media, or following a person.
- Choking, Suffocation, and Strangulation: A serious indictable offence carrying heavy jail time.
- Breach of AVO: Violating any condition of an AVO is a criminal offence with penalties up to 2 years imprisonment.
Possible Outcomes with a Domestic Violence Lawyer NSW:
- Self-Defence: You acted to protect yourself or another person.
- False Accusations: Domestic violence allegations are sometimes fabricated to gain leverage in family law disputes. We know how to cross-examine witnesses to uncover the truth.
- Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove the case “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Why Clients Choose Us
- Proven Track Record: W have experience successfully defending DV charges in NSW Local and District Courts.
- Urgent Availability: Domestic violence arrests often happen after hours. We are available 24/7 for urgent advice.
- Fixed Fees: We offer transparent fixed-fee pricing for AVO mentions, hearings, and sentence matters so you know exactly where you stand.
- Empathy & Discretion: We handle your matter with the utmost confidentiality and sensitivity.
- Clear communication—no legal jargon: We explain every step of the process in simple, easy-to-understand language so you always know exactly what is happening with your matter.
- Representation across all NSW courts: We appear in Local and District Courts throughout NSW, providing consistent, reliable representation no matter where your matter is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I go to jail for a domestic violence offence?
Jail is a possibility for serious offences or repeat offenders, but it is not automatic. For first-time offenders, we often successfully argue for non-custodial sentences or Section 10 dismissals (no conviction recorded), depending on the severity of the act.
Why do I need a Domestic Violence Lawyer NSW?
Domestic violence allegations carry serious consequences, including AVOs, criminal charges, and restrictions. A lawyer protects your rights, challenges evidence, and guides you through the legal process.
Does an AVO mean I have a criminal record?
No. The making of an AVO is a civil order. However, if you are charged with breaching the AVO and found guilty, that is a criminal offence which will appear on your record.
Can I still see my children if I have an AVO?
Standard AVO conditions often prohibit you from approaching the protected person. However, exceptions can be negotiated for child access, often in accordance with Family Court orders. It is vital to have a lawyer ensure your AVO conditions do not override your parenting rights.
How much does a Domestic Violence Lawyer cost in NSW?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case (e.g., a simple guilty plea vs. a multi-day defended hearing). At My Criminal Lawyers, we provide a free initial consultation to assess your case and provide a clear quote.
Contact Info
Interested in our services?
Don't face the police or the courts alone. The outcome of a domestic violence case can affect your employment, your travel rights, and your family life.
Email us
my@mycriminallawyers.com.au
Call us
0415 189 448
Address
Central Chambers suite 3, Level 1, 157 Crown Street Wollongong NSW 2500.
Schedule a visit
Complete the form and an experienced Domestic Violence Lawyer NSW will reach out with next steps.
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