Learn About Apprehended Violence Orders
Domestic violence is traumatic to a victim since they might feel threatened. A victim's life could be in danger because of another party, such as a relative or spouse. When another party threatens your children or property, you need to take legal action to stop the escalation of the matter. In some most instances, domestic violence cases have escalated into injuries or even death. Apart from physical harm, domestic violence also causes psychological and emotional distress. If you experience domestic violence, you can apply for an apprehended violence order (AVO) against them to protect you from any form of harassment, violence or intimidation. This article takes a look into the apprehended violence order.
The Meaning of Apprehended Violence Order (AVO)
If a person experiences domestic violence in any form or shape, they can apply for an order to help stop the abuse. Although different states have varying laws governing violence orders, in most jurisdictions, such an order is referred by different names such as a restraining order, apprehended violence order (AVO), domestic violence order, or violence protection order. This article uses the term apprehended violence order as an umbrella term for an order to stop harassment, intimidation or violence in the case of domestic violence. The process of applying for an AVO is almost similar in each state or territory. For instance, you can apply for an AVO to be enforced in different states.
Relationships Under AVO
Any person in a family or domestic relationship who feels harassed or violated in some form might apply for an AVO. Examples of relationships that are eligible for AVO include intimate unions such as same-sex and heterosexual relationships. Besides, a family relationship, including parents and siblings, is included in AVO application criteria. Extended family relations and informal relationships such as a cook or nanny are covered under an apprehended violence order.
Applying for AVO
If you experience forms of violence such as stalking, economic abuse, physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse and harassment, among others, then you should call the police to report an abuse. The police can issue an AVO known as police AVO to protect a victim from further abuse. A domestic violence lawyer can help you in applying for an AVO. However, in such an AVO, the police often represent a victim in any proceedings. However, it is recommended to work with a lawyer who understands family law to make sure that an AVO is enforced when the matter is brought to court.
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