Apprehended Violence Orders

Are you subject to an AVO application?

An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) is made by the Court to protect victims of domestic or other violence. The AVO prevents the defendant from doing certain things and may include orders not to contact or approach.

While an AVO is not a criminal offence, contravening one is. There may also be charges associated with the incident that resulted in the AVO application.

What can you do if an AVO application is served on you?

You have two choices as the defendant in an AVO application:

  1. Consent to the AVO being made, without admissions, or;
  2. Not consent to the order and attend an AVO hearing in Court to argue against the order being made.

In certain circumstances you may be able to make a private application for an AVO. If your application is refused, you may be required to pay the other sides legal costs.

It is best to speak to a Criminal Lawyer with experience in Apprehended Violence Orders before deciding what to do as either a defendant or an applicant. Contact Aubrey Brown Lawyers and ask to speak to a member of our Criminal Law team.

Our team of specialist staff are ready to help.