Domestic Violence

Family Violence is not uncommon

Violence is not as uncommon in relationships as some people think. It is a complex phenomenon sometimes being difficult to prove and difficult to defend.

The Family Court is a specialist court. The Judges and lawyers habitually appearing in the Court are well aware and experienced in the subtleties and dynamics of relationships, and the presence and effect of domestic violence, when it exists.

Violence has a very broad definition in the Family Court.

Violence includes: Physical, sexual and psychological abuse.

Psychological abuse includes, and is not limited to, intimidation, harassment, damage to property, threats of physical, sexual or psychological abuse.

Psychological abuse to a child is where a person allows a child, or puts them at real risk of seeing or hearing, the abuse of a person with whom the child has a domestic relationship.

In cases of domestic violence the Court can make Protection Orders, Occupation Orders, and ancillary Orders for furniture. In emergencies such orders can be made on the same day an application is made.