Domestic Violence
If you have been harassed, molested, threatened or assaulted by any person you may apply to a Local Court for an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO). An AVO is also sometimes referred to as a Restraining Order.

Applying for a Restraining Order
In an emergency the police can obtain a restraining order for you by telephoning a special justice who has been given powers to make interim orders 24 hours’ a day. Alternatively, you should see the Chamber Magistrate at your Local Court and make a complaint. A summons will then issue requiring the person who has harassed, molested, threatened or assaulted you (the defendant) to attend court.

If you are not sure how to proceed, telephone our office and we will help you. We will then represent you at court to deal with the defendant and follow the court procedures on your behalf. If police have issued the application for a restraining order, then the police prosecutor will appear in court for you on the hearing day.

For more information, download the Kells’ Fact Sheet: Domestic Violence