Domestic Violence Lawyers Penrith Area

Domestic violence matters in New South Wales are treated seriously by police and the courts. If you have been charged with a domestic violence offence, or an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) has been taken out against you, it is important to seek legal advice promptly.

An ADVO is a court order that places conditions on your behaviour towards a protected person, typically a current or former partner, family member, or household member. Breaching an ADVO is a criminal offence that carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment or a fine, or both. A provisional ADVO can be issued by police immediately, and a final ADVO can be made by the court even if you have not been convicted of any offence.

Domestic violence offences include assault, stalking, intimidation, and property damage where the victim is a person in a domestic relationship with the accused. These offences are often prosecuted as “domestic violence offences” under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 (NSW), which means they are recorded on a person’s criminal history even if no conviction is recorded.

You may consent to an ADVO without admissions, meaning the order is made but you do not admit the allegations. Alternatively, you may oppose the ADVO if you dispute the allegations or the need for an order. The appropriate approach will depend on your individual circumstances.

At Bateman Battersby Lawyers Penrith, our experienced team can assist you with all aspects of domestic violence matters, including:

• advising you on the implications of an ADVO and the conditions imposed;
• representing you in ADVO proceedings, including applications to vary or revoke orders;
• defending domestic violence charges in the Local Court;
• negotiating with police and prosecutors regarding charges and orders;
• making sentencing submissions to minimise the impact on your record and future.