Domestic Violence Lawyers Sydney

When you're facing a domestic violence situation, you need immediate legal help from lawyers who understand both sides of these complex cases. The Norton Law Group provides expert representation for victims seeking protection and individuals accused of domestic violence offences across Sydney and NSW. Call (02) 9560 6811 for a free 30-minute consultation.

Expert Legal Representation for Domestic Violence Lawyers in Sydney

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For Victims of Domestic Violence

If you've experienced physical violence, emotional abuse, economic control, or social isolation in a domestic relationship, our domestic violence lawyers can help you take immediate action. We'll guide you through:

• Applying for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) through police or directly to court
• Understanding your legal rights and protection options under NSW law
• Connecting with support services including counsellors, psychologists, and safe housing
• Family Court matters including custody, property settlement, and child support
• Criminal proceedings if your partner has been charged

Your safety is our priority. We act quickly to get protection orders in place and work with specialist support services to address every aspect of your situation.

For Those Accused of Domestic Violence

Being accused of domestic violence can impact every part of your life – your family relationships, employment, housing, and future. You need a lawyer who'll protect your rights and present your side of the story fairly.

Our criminal defence team helps with:

• Defending against domestic violence charges including assault, stalking, and intimidation
• Contesting or varying unfair AVOs that restrict your access to your home or children
• Bail applications and compliance with bail conditions
• Building strong defences including self-defence, lack of intent, or false allegations
• Working towards non-conviction outcomes like Section 10 dismissals
• Protecting your employment, visa status, and family law rights

We understand that many domestic violence allegations arise from relationship breakdowns where emotions run high. Our job is to make sure the court hears the full story and you get a fair outcome.

Collaborative Support Network with Specialists

We work collaboratively with domestic violence professionals including counsellors, psychologists, social workers, financial advisors and safe houses. This team approach ensures you receive complete support beyond just legal representation, addressing every aspect of your case from immediate safety to financial stability and mental wellbeing.

What is Domestic Violence in NSW?


Legal Definition Under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007


Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in any relationship used by one individual to gain or maintain power and control over another person. Under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007, acts of physical violence, intimidation and stalking in a domestic relationship are considered domestic violence offences.


Identifying domestic violence can often be difficult as the perpetrator will often only engage in acts of domestic violence behind closed doors. Not only can domestic violence result in criminal charges and convictions but the outside criminal sanctions, such as Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) - court orders designed to restrict the abusive person’s behaviour and protect victims from further harm. There are various consequences and remedies available pursuant to the Family Law Act.


What Qualifies a Domestic Relationship?


A domestic relationship includes:

  • Current and former partners (married, de facto, or dating relationships)
  • Family members, including children, parents, and siblings
  • People who live together or have lived together
  • Extended family members and carers
  • For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, any person who is part of the extended family or kin according to indigenous kinship systems


What are the Common Forms of Abuse?


Some of the most common types of domestic violence include:


Physical Violence – which involves unwanted physical contact such as punching, beating, slapping, shoving, unwanted sex or other physical contact and the like and includes the threat of of physical violence even absent actual physical violence;


Emotional Violence – actions and behaviour that undermines your confidence and humiliates, degrades, belittles or demeans you, such as name calling, gaslighting, manipulation, threats, humiliation;


Economical Violence – actions and behaviour intended to control your finances and financial independence;


Social Violence – actions and behaviour intended to control your social contact with others, whether family of friends.


What Can You Do to Protect Yourself from Domestic Violence?


If you have been in a domestic relationship, you can apply for a domestic violence orders by contacting the local police or by contacting one of our expert domestic violence lawyers . Orders can be obtained very quickly to restrict the access of an abusive partner on yourself, and/or your child or children, to protect your from further violent or, harassing activities and even to have an abusive partner removed from the home.

Legal Representation for Victims and Accused of Domestic Violence

Whether you're seeking protection from domestic violence or defending against allegations, expert legal representation is essential. For victims, we assist with AVO applications, court proceedings, and connect you with support services including 1800RESPECT and the NSW Domestic Violence Services Directory. For those accused, we protect your rights, explore defences including self-defence and lack of intent, and work to have charges dropped where possible. The court process involves first appearance, evidence disclosure, plea decisions, and potentially a defended hearing. We guide you through each step with strategic advice tailored to your circumstances.


Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyers Today or call (02) 9560 6811 for your free consultation.

Contact us Call (02) 9560 6811

Legal Consequences of Domestic Violence Convictions

Impact on Child Custody and Parenting Rights

Under the Family Law Act 1975, courts must consider family violence when making parenting decisions. This places people with AVOs at a disadvantage when seeking unsupervised time with their children or rights regarding long-term decision-making (parental responsibility). Breaching an AVO can devastate your legal rights over your child and impact child support and divorce proceedings.


Criminal Record and Background Checks

A domestic violence conviction creates a permanent criminal record that appears on national police checks. This record can affect:

  • Employment opportunities
  • Visa and immigration applications
  • Professional licences and registrations
  • Working with children checks
  • Security licences
  • Firearms licences

The conviction will show on police checks for employment, volunteering, or any role requiring background screening.

EEffects on Employment and Licensing

Criminal convictions appear on national police checks, restricting employment in:

  • Healthcare and nursing
  • Education and teaching
  • Childcare and aged care
  • Security and law enforcement
  • Government positions

Current workplace issues may arise where updated checks are required. Firearms licences and working with children checks will be affected or revoked.

Apprehended Violence Orders and Breach Consequences

An ADVO itself is not a criminal conviction and doesn't create a criminal record. However, breaching an ADVO is a criminal offence resulting in a criminal record and potential fines or imprisonment. Compliance with all AVO conditions is critical. We can help challenge unfair AVOs or seek variations to impractical conditions.


Why Choose The Norton Law Group for Your Domestic Violence Case?

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Accredited Specialists in Family Law

Dual Expertise in Criminal and Family Law


Our team has deep experience in both criminal and family law. We advise on how criminal proceedings affect custody, property settlement, and other family law issues. This dual expertise is valuable when your case touches multiple areas of law.

High Success Rate in Mediation Negotiation

Personalised Legal Strategies for Your Unique Situation


We create legal strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and goals, whether you're seeking urgent protection, defending against allegations, or working to keep your family together while addressing underlying issues.

Personalised and Empathetic Approach

Accredited Specialists with Proven Track Record


Our lawyers have achieved successful outcomes in hundreds of domestic violence cases across Sydney and Parramatta courts. We have a proven track record of getting charges dropped, securing non-conviction outcomes, and obtaining necessary protection.

Comprehensive Legal Support

Collaborative Approach with Strong Court Experience


We combine collaborative support with strong courtroom advocacy. While we work with counsellors, psychologists, and other professionals, we're also skilled litigators who present compelling arguments in court when needed.

Client-Centred Communication

First Free 30-Minute Phone Consultation with No Obligation


We offer every new client a free 30-minute phone consultation to discuss your case and explain your options. No obligation to proceed. During this consultation, we provide immediate guidance on urgent matters like bail applications or urgent AVO protection.

Cost-Efficiency

Responsive Communication Throughout Your Case


You'll have direct access to your lawyer with prompt responses to calls and emails. We explain legal processes in clear language and ensure you understand your options before making decisions.

Take the First Step - Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyers Today

f you're facing a domestic violence situation whether you need protection or you've been accused time matters. The sooner you get expert legal advice, the better your outcome will be. Call (02) 9560 6811 now for your free 30-minute consultation.


Don't face this alone. Get the legal help you need right now.



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Frequently Asked Questions

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  • How much does a domestic violence lawyer cost?

    Costs depend on what you need help with, how complex the matter is, and how many court dates are involved. We will talk you through likely costs during your first consultation so you can make an informed decision.

  • Can domestic violence charges be dropped?

    Yes, domestic violence charges can be dropped in several ways. Charges may be withdrawn if there's insufficient evidence, if the alleged victim chooses not to proceed, or if there are significant inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence. Our lawyers prepare detailed legal representations to police highlighting weaknesses in their case, or we successfully defend charges at a hearing. Getting charges dropped early saves significant legal fees and stress.

  • How long do domestic violence cases take?

    The timeline varies depending on how you plead and the complexity of your case. If you plead guilty at the first opportunity, matters typically resolve within 2-3 months. Cases proceeding to a defended hearing usually take 4-6 months from the first court date. However, if we successfully negotiate early charge withdrawal through legal representations to police, your matter could be resolved within just a few weeks. Complex cases involving multiple charges or requiring expert evidence may take longer.

  • What should I do if I've been charged with domestic violence?

    Contact a lawyer immediately before providing any statements to police. When arrested, identify yourself and provide your contact details, but politely decline to participate in a recorded interview until you've received legal advice. Don't discuss the allegations with anyone except your lawyer. Avoid all contact with the alleged victim if there's an AVO in place or if your bail conditions prevent contact. Call us on (02) 9560 6811 urgently for immediate advice about your situation.

  • What is the penalty for a first-time domestic violence charge?

    The penalty depends on the specific offence charged and the circumstances of your case. First-time offenders are generally treated more leniently by courts than repeat offenders. Many first-time offenders receive a Section 10 dismissal, which means the court finds you guilty but doesn't record a conviction. Other possible outcomes include good behaviour bonds, community service orders, fines, or in serious cases, imprisonment. The key is getting experienced legal representation early to present your case in the best possible light and maximise your chances of a non-conviction outcome.

  • Can a victim contact the defendant?

    Yes, a victim can initiate contact with the defendant. However, the defendant may be legally unable to respond if they're subject to an AVO or strict bail conditions. This creates a difficult situation because if the defendant responds to contact initiated by the victim, they could still be charged with breaching their AVO or bail conditions, even though they didn't initiate the contact. This is why both victims and defendants should speak to an experienced lawyer before any contact occurs to understand their rights and obligations.

  • Do I need a lawyer for domestic violence charges?

    If you're a victim of domestic violence, you don't legally need your own lawyer as police prosecutors will handle the criminal case. However, many victims choose to have their own lawyer for guidance on AVOs and related family law matters. If you're the defendant charged with a domestic violence offence, it's highly advisable to get an experienced criminal defence lawyer. The consequences of a conviction can be severe and long-lasting, affecting your employment prospects, custody of children, and creating a permanent criminal record. Skilled lawyers often achieve outcomes that aren't available to self-represented defendants, including having charges dropped early, negotiating reduced charges, or securing non-conviction outcomes.