Whether you need urgent court representation, assistance with family law matters related to domestic violence, or referrals to support services, TAFT Lawyers are here to advocate for your safety and well-being every step of the way.
Our experienced family law team in Dandenong and Melbourne, are dedicated to helping you secure immediate safety and long-term protection through legal avenues, such as obtaining Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs) and advising on your rights and options. We work closely with you to develop a personalized approach, guiding you through the legal process with care and diligence.
At TAFT Lawyers, we understand that experiencing domestic violence can be an incredibly distressing and challenging time, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal support to protect you and your loved ones.
What to do in case of domestic violence in Australia?
If you are experiencing domestic violence in Australia, it is important to prioritize your safety and seek support. Here are the steps you can take:
- Call Emergency Services
- Seek Support from Domestic Violence Services
- Apply for a Protection Order
- Contact the Police for Assistance
- Seek Legal Advice
- Access Counseling and Support Services
- Create a Safety Plan
Call Emergency Services
If you are in immediate danger, call 000 for emergency assistance. The police can respond to protect you, remove the perpetrator, and assist you in getting to a safe place.
Seek Support from Domestic Violence Services
Various support services are available to help victims of domestic violence. You can contact:
- 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), a national counseling service for victims of domestic violence, available 24/7.
- Safe Steps (1800 015 188) in Victoria, which provides crisis support and safe accommodation.
- Local crisis centers or shelters for safe housing if you need to leave your home urgently.
Apply for a Protection Order
You can apply for a Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) in court to protect yourself from the perpetrator. This order can place restrictions on the offender, such as preventing them from approaching or contacting you. The police can also help you apply for an Interim Intervention Order if urgent protection is needed.
Contact the Police for Assistance
If the violence continues or if the perpetrator breaches an intervention order, report the incident to the police. They can take further action, including arresting the offender or imposing charges.
Seek Legal Advice
A family lawyer or legal aid service can advise you on your rights and options, including how to apply for protection orders, deal with property and custody matters, and understand the impact of domestic violence on legal proceedings.
Access Counseling and Support Services
Domestic violence can have significant emotional and psychological effects. It’s important to seek counseling or support services to help you cope and recover. Many organizations offer free or low-cost counseling tailored to victims of family violence.
Create a Safety Plan
If you are not in immediate danger but are planning to leave an abusive relationship, develop a safety plan. This plan should include:
- Packing an emergency bag with essentials (like clothing, important documents, and cash).
- Having a list of trusted contacts who can provide support.
- Identifying safe places you can go if needed.
Domestic violence is taken seriously in Australia, and there are numerous resources to protect and assist victims. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.
