What is domestic violence?
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Emotional. verbal and psychological abuse
- Economic abuse
- Intimidation
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Damage to property
- Entering the home without the victim's permission
- Any other abusive, controlling behaviour
If these forms of abuse are happening to you, then you can apply to the court for a protection order. Who does the act protect?
- Married, divorced or separated couples
- Couples living together (including gay or lesbian couples)
- Parents of a child
- Family members (including the extended family)
- People who are engaged or dating one another
- Children
How do you get a protection order? Click here for assistance What happens if the protection order is broken?
- You must call the police and give them the warrant of arrest, the abuser will then be arrested or given a notice to appear in court
What will happen to the abuser?
- The abuser can be sent to prison for up to five years
- The abuser can be fined
- The abuser can be fined and imprisoned
- Once this arrest warrant has been used, go back to court to get another one.
- You will need another warrant in case the abuser harms you again
How can a protection order help you? In the protection order the court can tell the abuser not to:
- Commit acts of domestic violence
- Ask others to abuse you
- Enter the family home
- Enter particular parts of the house
- Enter your home or workplace
- Stop you from entering or leaving the home
A protection order can tell the police to:
- Take away the abuser's guns or other dangerous weapons
- Provide an escourt to fetch your things
The abuser can also be ordered to:
- Pay the rent or mortgage
- Provide money for food and other household expenses
- Protection orders can also stop the abuser from having contact with a child.
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