This article provides general information about NSW law, not advice about your matter. Laws and procedures can change. Seek legal advice about your circumstances and check the current official guidance.
Read the application and any current order
An apprehended violence order (AVO) is a protective order. The application explains the orders sought, while any provisional or interim order sets out conditions that may already apply. Read both carefully and check the next court date.
An AVO is not itself a criminal conviction. However, breaching an AVO can be a criminal offence, and related criminal charges may be dealt with separately. Obtain advice about each part of the matter.
Understand the available responses
Depending on the circumstances, you may consent to an order, consent without admissions, oppose the application or ask for time to obtain advice. These choices have different implications. Do not assume consent without admissions means the conditions have no practical effect.
Discuss how proposed conditions could affect housing, family arrangements, employment or licences. If you oppose the application, your lawyer can explain the evidence and court process.
Interim conditions still matter
Disputing an application does not automatically remove an interim order. Follow the conditions currently in force unless they are formally changed or cease to apply.
A protected person’s invitation to contact them does not override an order prohibiting contact. Obtain advice before communicating, returning to a property or making arrangements that may conflict with a condition.
Prepare without escalating the situation
Preserve relevant messages and documents and provide them to your lawyer. Do not contact witnesses or the protected person in a way that breaches an order or could be seen as intimidation.
- The AVO application and all current orders.
- Any related charges and bail papers.
- The next court date and a factual timeline.
- Relevant communications and practical concerns about conditions.