Coercive control is a challenging legal issue encompassing a range of accusatory behaviours, from intimidation and manipulation to isolation and financial abuse. The legal framework for coercive control in NSW has recently evolved, and it is crucial to appreciate these changes from the defendant’s perspective. This blog aims to shed light on what defendants facing […]
What you need to know about AVOs
An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) is an order made by a court against somebody in circumstances where a person in need of protection can show that he or she has reasonable grounds to fear that somebody may engage in personal violence or intimidating or stalking behaviour against that person. The ‘defendant’ is the person against […]
Coercive Control Offences in New South Wales
Recent research found that 99% of intimate partner homicides in New South Wales that occurred between 2008 and 2016 were preceded by evidence of “coercive control” within the relationship. In 2022, the NSW parliament introduced a bill law to criminalise coercive control in an effort to prevent intimate partner homicide. Enforcement of this law will not […]
ENGAGE Program for Domestic Violence
ENGAGE is for men over 18 who are at court for an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order application or a Domestic Violence (“ADVO”) charge. Participants can also come from recommendations and/or requirements with NSW Community Corrections. ENGAGE is a brief voluntary intervention for perpetrators of intimate partner violence. ENGAGE is free and includes a six hour workshop and referrals to […]
Is Intimidation a crime in NSW?
Yes, the offence is stalking, or intimidation is under section 13 the Crimes (Domestic & Personal Violence) Act 2007. The penalty for this offence is 50 penalty units and/or 5 years imprisonment. What is intimidation? conduct (including cyber-bullying) amounting to harassment or molestation of the person, or an approach made to the person […]
I’ve just been served with an AVO, what does that mean? What do I do?
An AVO or Apprehended Domestic/Personal Violence Order is an order from Police and/or the courts prohibiting certain behaviour with the aim of to protecting the Person in Need of Protection (PINOP). AVO’s in New South Wales are governed by the Crimes (Domestic and Personal) Violence Act 2007. Apprehended Violence Orders can be made for the protection […]