Jonson Leo

Domestic violence can significantly affect the outcome of family law matters, especially when parenting arrangements or shared property are involved. At Just Family Law, our domestic violence lawyers work with individuals and families across Melbourne to provide legal protection, sound advice, and effective representation. With 40 years of combined experience, we understand how sensitive and complex these matters can be.

Victorian law, as set by Parliament, acknowledges that family violence is most commonly committed by men against women. In the discussion below, we apologise if the somewhat gendered language causes offence. We recognise that every situation has two sides, and our role is to advocate for our client’s position with care, professionalism, and objectivity.

We commonly assist in intervention order matters that affect parenting time or where a shared home becomes inaccessible to one party. Whether you are seeking protection or responding to an application, our aim is to help you navigate the process clearly while keeping long-term outcomes in mind.

There are three key ways we support clients dealing with domestic violence issues in family law:

• Applying for or defending against intervention orders, also known as IVOs, AVOs, or personal safety notices
• Arguing that family violence has influenced property settlement outcomes
• Ensuring parenting orders reflect concerns about safety and the best interests of the children

As experienced intervention order lawyers in Melbourne, we help clients determine whether an urgent protective order is necessary or whether a more flexible legal approach may be appropriate. We also assist clients in challenging intervention orders that are unfairly restrictive or do not accurately reflect the full circumstances of the relationship.

Once separation has occurred, our broader legal strategy involves assessing the likelihood of future violence or the risk of ongoing allegations, then shifting focus to the bigger picture. This includes working towards a fair property settlement and suitable parenting arrangements.

In most cases, we aim to move efficiently through Magistrates Court proceedings so clients can focus on achieving more permanent and stable outcomes through family law processes.

When we act for mothers, we seek orders that prioritise safety while maintaining appropriate control over housing and parenting decisions. When acting for fathers who have been restricted from seeing their children due to an intervention order, we work to finalise IVO matters and move the case to the Family Court or Federal Circuit Court, where decisions are guided by the best interests of the child.

What should I do now?

If you have received an intervention order or are considering applying for one, it is important to:

• Read and understand all conditions carefully
• Follow the terms strictly
• Attend court as required
• Seek legal advice before your first, and ideally only, court appearance

To speak with a domestic violence lawyer in Melbourne or trusted intervention order lawyers in Melbourne, contact Just Family Law on 03 9793 7888 for a confidential consultation. We support clients throughout Melbourne and surrounding areas with experienced, compassionate, and effective family law representation.