What's happening?
Family violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial and coercive behaviour, and it can affect decisions about safety, property and children. If you are experiencing family violence, immediate safety comes first — if you are in danger, contact police.
Family violence can be relevant across several areas of family law, including AVO applications, parenting arrangements and, in some cases, property settlement. It's important that any safety concerns are raised clearly with your lawyer so they can be properly considered.
What could it mean for me?
- Safety concerns can affect what parenting arrangements are appropriate
- Family violence may be relevant to how a court approaches parenting and, in some cases, property matters
- An AVO may be available as a protective measure alongside other family law processes
- Support services, as well as legal advice, can be an important part of your plan
What are my options?
- Contact police if you are in immediate danger
- Seek advice on applying for an AVO for protection
- Discuss how safety concerns should be factored into parenting or property discussions
- Connect with support services alongside legal advice
What happens next?
- Prioritise your immediate safety and that of any children involved
- Speak with a family lawyer about your circumstances confidentially
- Consider whether an AVO or other protective steps are appropriate
- Work through parenting or property matters with your safety front of mind
How can MGE Lawyers help?
MGE Lawyers provides sensitive, confidential advice to people affected by family violence, taking the time to understand your circumstances and concerns.
We can advise on protective options such as AVOs, and on how family violence may be relevant to parenting or property matters, always with your safety as a priority.