Domestic Violence Lawyers Sydney

Nobody should go through Domestic Violence alone. Our firm offers specialist Domestic Violence Lawyers in Sydney.

Expert Domestic and Family Violence Lawyers in Sydney

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Representing Victims and the Accused

The Norton Law Group offers legal representation for the domestic violence cases of individuals going through abuse or violence within a domestic setting such as between spouses, partners and children or living in the same household. If you are the victim of domestic violence or have been accused or charged with an act of domestic violence The Norton Law Group domestic violence and family law experts , who can provide you with the necessary legal advice to protect your rights. Our domestic violence lawyers in Sydney will help you through every step and provide you with required legal guidance and process, ensuring your safety and legal protection, whether you are a victim seeking protection, or someone accused who needs a fair defense.

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 Constitutes 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

Consequences of Domestic Violence Convictions

Child Custody and Family Law Implications

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.


Employment and Background Checks

Criminal convictions appear on national police checks, restricting employment in healthcare, education, childcare, security, and 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

Experienced in Both Criminal and Family Law Implications


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.

At the Norton Law Group We Offer a First Free Consultation.

Call us today at (02) 9560 6811 if you are the victim of domestic violence or if you have been charged with a domestic violence related offence and let one of our expert domestic violence lawyers Sydney or domestic violence lawyers Parramatta help you.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • How much does a domestic violence lawyer cost?

    Legal fees typically start from $X (including GST) and can range up to $X or more. The final cost depends on several factors including case complexity, the court location, the number of court dates required, and whether you plead guilty or not guilty. We're completely transparent about our fees and provide clear cost estimates during your initial consultation.

  • 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.