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Someone has taken out a Domestic Violence Protection Order against me
If someone has taken out a Domestic Violence Protection Order, or the police have issued a Police Protection Notice against you, then you should do the following:
- Follow the Order or the notice, even if you do not agree with it. Read it carefully, and do not break (contravene) it;
- Go to Court — an Order can be made even if you do not go; and
- Get support from family, friends or a support services.
The conditions of an Order or notice are serious, and breaching a Domestic Violence Protection Order (including any Temporary Protection Orders) is a criminal offence. If you are found guilty of breaching the Protection Order, you could face a fine, a term of imprisonment or both.
You should get legal advice before deciding whether you agree or disagree with the Domestic Violence Protection Order Application, or before asking for a Hearing date.
A Domestic Violence Order is a civil matter. If a Domestic Violence Protection Order is made you will not have a criminal record if you follow the terms of the Order. However, if you are alleged to have breached the Order, you may be charged by the police. A conviction for breaching (contravening) a Domestic Violence Protection Order is a criminal matter.
If a Domestic Violence Protection Order is made it may affect licences and other cards you hold, including weapons and security licences and Working with Children – Blue Cards.
A final Domestic Violence Protection Order normally lasts for 5 years. A Temporary Order can be made whenever an Application is mentioned in Court and will last until the next mention date or when an Application is heard by the Court.
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