Domestic Violence Lawyers

Find comfort in having a clear confidential plan for your domestic violence matters.

Seeking Support from Domestic Violence Lawyers Brisbane

The family violence statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare are alarming. One in four women and one in seven men have suffered physical violence or sexual abuse from a partner or family member since the age of 15.

Domestic or family violence matters are unfortunately widespread in our society. However, there is help available from family law experts experienced with domestic violence matters.

What is Domestic Violence?

Section 4AB of the Family Law Act defines domestic and family violence as:

Violent, threatening or other behaviour by a person that coerces or controls a member of the person’s family (the family member), or causes the family member to be fearful.

Examples of family violence include:

An assault.
A sexual assault or other sexually abusive behaviour.
Stalking.
Financial abuse.
Repeated derogatory taunts or other emotional abuse.
Intentionally damaging or destroying property.

When Do You Need to Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates that over 11% of Australian adults have faced abuse from a partner. People who haven’t suffered family violence likely know someone who has. Victims face various challenges.

Lack of evidence

How do you prove a party has committed domestic violence? This can be complicated by a lack of evidence and the victim’s emotional trauma. Victims often feel ashamed of their experiences. This can lead them to wilfully seek to cover up the abuse. Lack of witnesses can hinder an investigation. Also, injuries sustained by the perpetrator through the victim’s self-defence may be misinterpreted as mutual abuse.

Misidentifying the perpetrator

There’s mounting evidence that police are misidentifying victims as the aggressors. For example, a victim may be suffering extensive physical and psychological abuse in a relationship. After calling the police, the victim can be overcome with emotion and act out. The perpetrator may then take that opportunity to paint the victim as dangerous with mental health concerns. This may seem like an edge case, but it’s becoming all too common.

Not seeking legal representation

Victims’ shame can prevent them from reaching out for help. There are various support services available, including:

1800RESPECT. A national counselling hotline.

13 YARN. A crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Men’s Referral Service. An information and counselling service for men who use family violence.

An experienced family lawyer will supplement these services. A lawyer ensures that you get the help you need. Without effective legal representation, a safe resolution can be difficult.

How Can Our Domestic Violence Lawyers Help You?

A good family lawyer can help you manage the various difficulties of dealing with domestic violence issues.

Documenting evidence

The primary mechanism for ensuring a domestic violence victim’s safety is a domestic violence order. If the application for domestic violence orders is contested, a lawyer can help to gather the necessary witness affidavits and other evidence for the final hearing.

Protecting victims

Family violence lawyers can help you navigate the legal system. Mistakes can happen and have significant consequences. Police can misunderstand emotionally charged circumstances. We ensure that the victim is identified and receives the necessary support.

Effective legal representation

The legal process can be daunting and difficult to approach. A family lawyer doesn’t just help with legal proceedings. We can offer the emotional support to face the process of seeking a domestic violence protection order. If a protection order is breached, we’ll ensure this criminal offence is dealt with appropriately.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing a law firm that specialises in this area and puts your needs first is essential. Andrews Family Lawyers is an excellent option for a few reasons:

Whether you’re experiencing physical, psychological or sexual violence, our team operates with empathy and understanding.

We seek a quick and safe resolution so you can move on to a better future.

We understand the financial struggles felt by domestic violence victims. We work with you to find legal solutions for your financial capacity.

How to Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Brisbane?

For assistance with family violence offences, contact us today for a free initial consultation.

Trusted By Our Clients

With a proven track record in resolving complex family law issues, we've earned the confidence and trust of families across north Brisbane.

Thank you, Peter from Andrews Family Lawyers, it was a pleasure dealing with you. A no complication to the point settlement. Your open and honest demeanor helped my ex-partner and I to expediently resolve our financial situation so we can move forward with our lives. Once again thank you.

Chris Monteiro CLIENT

Peter is an outstanding lawyer, with the knowledge, experience and stamina to succeed in family law matters. Would highly recommend his services to anyone who needs to achieve a successful outcome in their proceedings.

Fabio Mazza CLIENT