Domestic Violence: Key Terms Defined
Understanding Domestic Violence Key Terms is essential if you are involved in a domestic violence matter for the first time. Legal language can feel overwhelming, particularly during stressful circumstances.
If you have never been involved in a domestic violence (DV) matter before, some terms may be unfamiliar to you.
This guide explains Domestic Violence Key Terms in clear, simple language so you can better understand what they mean and how they apply in Queensland.
Definitions
Aggrieved: The aggrieved is the person who it is alleged experiences domestic violence. Sometimes it’s the person who is most in need of protection, if both parties have been exposed to domestic violence.
Respondent: This is the person alleged to be committing the domestic violence. It is the person the court makes the Domestic Violence Order, Police Protection Notice or Police Protection Direction against.
DVO: A DVO stands for a Domestic Violence Order, also known as a protection order. It is a civil order made by a Magistrates Court that sets out conditions which are designed to protect the aggrieved and others named on the order, such as children or other named persons.
Named Person: When a reference is made to a named person it means someone who is specifically named on the order. It could be a child, relative or associate of the aggrieved that is protected by the order.
Breach: A breach is what happens if the respondent does not obey a condition of the order. It is also known as a contravention. The law treats a breach as a criminal offence. The maximum penalty for beaching an order is 3 years imprisonment or a fine of 120 penalty units. Courts impose higher penalties if you have previous convictions for breaching an order.
You can find more information on a breach here: Breaching a Domestic Violence Order
Domestic Violence: This term covers a very broad range of situations. It is behaviour that controls or dominates another person and makes them fear for their safely and wellbeing.
You can find more information here: What is domestic violence?
Informal Care Relationship: This means that one of the parties was dependent on the other for help in daily living activities.
Family Relationship: This means that they are, or were, at one time related to each other. This includes by blood or marriage.
Intimate Personal Relationship: This means that there was a romantic relationship between the parties, it could be that they were or are a couple, engaged or spouses. It is broad enough to include past relationships.
Conclusion
Contact Potts Lawyers today for personalised legal advice.
Our team of DV lawyers have a wealth of experience in domestic violence matters and are able to provide a holistic approach to these complex situations.