The IWCADV provides legal information to female aggrieveds and respondents at the four courts in our region (Ipswich, Richlands, Gatton and Toogoolawah).
We are also able to provide legal information to women and other community members over the phone or during face to face appointments during business hours.
The legal information that we provide relates specifically to domestic violence, related legislation and the court process and includes:
- Relationships and behaviours covered in the Domestic Violence Act (1989);
- The standard conditions contained in Domestic Violence Prevention Orders (DVO), as well as some of the extra conditions that can be sought;
- Support regarding processes such as how to fill in a DVO, lodging a DVO with the court, and following up on breaches to DVO's;
- Why matters might be adjourned, what happens to your application after you have lodged, and what it means when a respondent is to be served;
- What to expect when you attend a mention or hearing date at a Magistrates Court;
- The role of different people within the court, such as the Magistrate, Police Prosecutors, court clerks, security guards and Court Support Workers (for both men and women);
- Referrals to legal advice services and legal practitioners.
It is important to clarify that the provision of legal information is not the same as getting legal advice or representation from an appropriately qualified professional, such as a solicitor.
In many cases, as part of providing legal information, IWCADV workers will strongly recommend further legal advice, or suggest seeking representation for certain proceedings (such as if a matter is going to hearing).
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