Domestic Violence is the abusive or intimidating behaviour by a partner or family member that controls. dominates or causes fear. Kennedy Spanners’ Toowoomba family law team compassionately assists many people who may have been impacted by instances of domestic violence. We understand your need to protect the safety of yourself and your children and the importance of every person feeling safe and secure when going about their day to day lives.
We have helped many people through the legal process of protecting themselves and their family to gain the confidence to move on with healthy, happy lives.
Taking action
Your immediate safety is paramount. If you ever feel that you are in immediate danger of physical violence, we strongly recommend you contact the Police straight away. This way any violence can be recorded in official Police records which, combined with a history of violent behaviour, may make it easier to explain your personal situation to a Court later on. If allegations of violence are occurring between partners, children or other family members, seek our advice regarding a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) (Queensland) or an Apprehended Violence Order (New South Wales).
To obtain a DVO there needs to be a relationship, an act of domestic violence and the likelihood of violence reoccurring in the future. The relationship can be one of a wide range of situations including married, separated, divorced, relatives, de-facto, same or opposite sex and parents of mutual children.
Threats and harassment
It is important to know that you do not have to have been physically harmed to seek the protection of a DVO. Acts of a threatening nature, harassment, intimidation and damage to property may also be sufficient.
The penalties for breaching a DVO can be significant and in many instances will provide a suitable deterrent to ongoing violent behaviour.
Please contact Kennedy Spanner Lawyers immediately if you are, or fear you may be, the victim of domestic violence. We will ensure you get the right advice to protect yourself and your family.
