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Domestic Violence

Potts Lawyers > Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence: Key Terms Defined

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...

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Police Protection Directions Queensland 2026

Police Protection Directions Queensland: What a PPD Means for You in 2026 Police Protection Directions in Queensland From 1 January 2026, Queensland Police gained expanded powers to issue Police Protection Directions (PPDs). A Police Protection Direction is a legally binding order that can significantly affect your freedom, your home, and your daily life. These directions allow police to provide immediate protection in domestic and family violence situations, without first going through the courts. While the intent is to enhance victim safety, PPDs carry serious legal consequences if breached. In this article, we explain what Police Protection Directions are, when police can issue a PPD...

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The Initial Impact of a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) Application in Queensland

A Step-by-Step Guide for Respondents Being named as the Respondent in a domestic violence order (DVO) application in Queensland may be overwhelming. Confusion, anger, fear and anxiety are all common reactions. You may be wondering: What is a DVO? Who made the application? Why do I have to go to court? What does the paperwork mean? What are my rights and obligations? Most importantly, what should I do next? Even if you disagree with the allegations or intend to contest the application, it is essential to take the process seriously. Domestic violence matters can progress quickly, and once served, you therefore may already...

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FAQs for Domestic Violence Matters

The laws surrounding domestic violence have changed significantly in the last decade. An average of 30,000 domestic violence applications [1] were lodged each year from July 2018 to June 2023 [2]. In this series of blogs, we will answer some frequently asked questions with respect to domestic violence laws in Queensland. FAQs for Domestic Violence Matters - PART TWO My ex took out a DVO against me and I want to engage lawyers to assist me.  Can I get any of my legal costs back if I win? The costs provisions of the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act were amended in August 2023 to...

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FAQs for Domestic Violence Matters

The laws surrounding domestic violence have changed significantly in the last decade. Over a five year period[1], there was on average, nearly 30,000 applications for a domestic violence filed each year.[2] In this series of blogs, we will answer some frequently asked questions with respect to domestic violence laws in Queensland.   Part 1 What is domestic violence? The meaning of "domestic violence" is very broad. It occurs when two people are in a "relevant relationship" and involves behaviour that: is physically or sexually abusive; is emotionally or psychologically abusive; is economically abusive; is threatening; is coercive; or in any other way controls or dominates...

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Understanding Apprehended Violence Order in New South Wales

In each State and Territory, there is legislation that has been drafted to allow people to apply for restraining/ protection orders. The legislation dealing with domestic violence in New South Wales is the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 (Act). The objective of the Act is to protect people from domestic violence, intimidation and stalking. The Act also sets out to protect people who are witness to domestic violence or have experienced domestic violence (i.e children in the relationship). In New South Wales a restraining order is called an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) An AVO is an order that can be made...

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How do I change a domestic violence order that’s in place?

Are you the respondent in a domestic violence order that you want changed? A respondent is an individual who has been ordered to comply with a series of conditions. Or, are you the aggrieved in a domestic violence matter seeking the order to be varied? An aggrieved is an individual who is protected under the domestic violence order. The conditions put in place are meant to protect this person’s safety and well-being. What are Domestic Violence Orders?  Domestic violence orders are civil orders put in place to protect people against domestic violence. They can include a range of strict conditions and can be...

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Keeping You Up to Date on Domestic Violence Laws in Queensland

Domestic and family violence occupies a substantial percentage of police time, through processes like applications for domestic violence orders and breaches of a domestic violence order. The Queensland Government plans on taking steps to improve police efficiency in this regard. Current Queensland Government Domestic Violence Legislation Domestic violence laws in Queensland are governed by the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act. Under this legislation, police can issue a Police Protection Notice that remains in place until the first court appearance. At that time, the Court then determines whether a Temporary Protection Order need to be put in place for the duration of...

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Bridging Legal Realms: Navigating the Intersection of Domestic Violence & Family Law Proceedings

Navigating the complexities surrounding domestic violence and parenting can be both legally intricate and emotionally charged. When relationships deteriorate to the point where domestic violence becomes a concern, courts often intervene with domestic violence orders to protect victims. The presence of parenting orders adds a layer of complexity, as courts must balance the safety of aggrieved’s with the rights of parents to maintain a relationship with their children. In order to protect your rights and interests it is crucial that you obtain legal representation from a lawyer that understands the interplay between domestic violence orders and parenting orders.   What do I do...

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Case Study – 2 x Contravention of Domestic Violence Order

Matter: 2 x Contravention of Domestic Violence Order Court Brisbane Magistrates Court Maximum penalty: 3 years imprisonment Solicitor: Jack Bendall     Date: March 2023 Overview Our client was a named respondent on a protection order, his partner was the aggrieved. As a result of the protection order being made he was subjected to a number of conditions. These conditions included him having no contact with the aggrieved, and was prohibited from being within 100 metres of the aggrieved, unless with her written permission. A few months after this protection order was made, our client was charged with contravening the order. This was in circumstances where the aggrieved and...

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