Articles

An AVO for verbal abuse is a way for victims to protect themselves against further conduct. Verbal abuse is a way for an abuser to gain control over their victims by creating an unbalanced power dynamic between them. Verbal abuse can have complex effects on the victim’s identity and sense of self especially if it […]

A private AVO is beneficial for those who seek protection against another person when police are unwilling to help. Applying for a private AVO is a long process and can be confusing if you are uninformed about the many steps of the procedure. The below article will explain the process. What is a private AVO? […]

The age of consent varies across Australian states. The idea of an age of consent is designed to protect children, who are incapable of consenting due to their lack of maturity. Due to the complexity of sexual assault charges, it is important to consult an experienced criminal defence lawyer if the age of consent is […]

NRL journalist Paul Kent has been charged with affray in Sydney. A video has surfaced which allegedly depicts the incident. The 54-year-old was granted bail by police and has his first court date on May 24. There is a co-accused who faces similar charges. Paul Kent Affray Paul Kent presented at Newtown Police Station this […]

An AVO for harassment is a legally enforceable court order which restricts the behaviour of a person. The standard conditions of an Apprehended Violence Order prohibit the defendant from assaulting, harassing, threatening, intimidating, stalking, damaging property or harming pets of the person in need of protection (PINOP). What is Harassment? Harassment is any unwanted behaviour […]

Victims of verbal abuse often wonder whether it is a crime and whether there is any recourse for them. This is particularly so when it occurs in the context of a domestic violence situation. Obtaining an apprehended violence order (AVO) is a possibility but only in circumstances where the conduct meets the requisite criteria. What […]

Central Coast Mariners forward Angel Torres has been charged with sexual assault and suspended by Football Australia. The suspension is currently on a ‘no-fault’ basis until the matter is resolved – something that could take over 12 months. The club released a statement emphasising that no finding of guilt has yet been made. Angel Torres […]

Lawyers are regularly asked about the difference between battery and assault. Both concepts deal with the use of physical force against another person. This article explores both ideas and how they are dealt with today. What is assault? An assault is any deliberate action where a person intentionally or recklessly instils in another the fear […]

The criminal justice system regularly deals with persons who make a complaint to police about their partner, but later decide that they want to know how to get domestic violence charges dropped. There may also be circumstances where a complainant has explicitly told police that they do not want their partner charged, but police lay […]

When police apply for an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO), often the first question that many people ask is whether the AVO will appear on a police check. Often people are concerned about the consequences of an AVO being made against them. As such it is crucial to speak to a specialist AVO lawyer who can […]