Domestic Violence Lawyers Sydney
Protecting yourself and your family members from domestic violence situations is critical — quality legal representation can ensure this safety.
COMPASSIONATE LEGAL ADVICE
At Ramsden Family Law, our domestic violence lawyers in Sydney are here to provide compassionate legal advice and support to get you through this tough time.
Having more than 20 years of combined experience, we’ve worked on different kinds of domestic violence matters, including defending clients, understanding court procedures, and negotiating with the police.
We know that trust between a client and their lawyer is paramount, especially in sensitive matters such as domestic violence. For this reason, you can be confident our lawyers will be able to handle your case with care and sincerity.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic and family violence is any dangerous behaviour pattern that can make a partner or family member feel unsafe. It can take on various forms, such as emotional, psychological, physical or sexual abuse, all of which create a sense of coercion and control over another individual.
Types of Domestic & Family Violence Matters
At Ramsden Family Law, we recognise the various forms domestic violence can take and provide detailed explanations to help you understand your situation better. Our comprehensive approach ensures you receive the support and legal protection you need.
TYPES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INCLUDE
Physical Abuse: This includes any intentional act that causes physical harm or injury, such as hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, choking, or using weapons. Our firm has extensive expertise in handling cases involving physical violence, ensuring that victims receive the necessary legal protection and support.
Sexual Abuse: Any form of non-consensual, unwanted sexual contact or behaviour, including rape, sexual assault, inappropriate touching, or coercing someone into sexual activities against their will.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse: Includes behaviours in an abusive relationship that cause emotional or psychological distress, such as verbal abuse, humiliation, degradation, isolation, or intimidation.
Financial Abuse: Involves exerting control over someone’s financial resources, restricting their access to money, or using financial manipulation to dominate or exploit them.
Spiritual Abuse: Includes the misuse of religious or spiritual beliefs to exert control or manipulation over someone, often using religious justification for abusive behaviour.
Stalking and Other Harassment: Ongoing and unwelcome actions that instil fear or anxiety, such as following someone, making threats, or sending repeated unwanted communications.
Expert Legal Support and Representation for Domestic Violence Cases
Trust and Expertise
When it comes to domestic or family violence matters, trust between a client and their lawyer is essential. At Ramsden Family Law, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of expertise and compassionate service.
Our Clients Are the Main Focus
We understand the emotional and psychological toll that domestic violence cases can take on individuals and families. Our client-focused approach is designed to offer personalised and compassionate service tailored to your unique circumstances. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your situation, and develop a legal strategy that aligns with your needs and values.
Our Services
Parenting and Ensuring Your Child’s Wellbeing.
At Ramsden Family Law, we understand that your child’s safety and welfare are your highest priorities, especially in cases involving domestic violence.
PARENTING MATTERS INVOLVING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
How We Can Assist in Parenting Matters Involving Domestic Violence
Filing a Notice of Child Abuse, Family Violence, or Risk
If you believe your child is at risk due to domestic violence, we assist in preparing and submitting the required Notice of Risk to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA). This ensures early intervention and protective measures for your child.
Applying for Urgent Parenting Orders
If there is an unacceptable level of risk to your child, we can apply for urgent parenting orders to restrict or suspend parenting time, supervise visitation arrangements, and ensure protection before any contact occurs.
Seeking an Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL)
In high-conflict cases, the court may appoint an Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL) to represent the child’s interests. We assist in engaging with the ICL and ensuring that the court is aware of all relevant safety concerns.
Relocation for Safety Reasons
If relocating is necessary to protect yourself and your child from domestic violence, our lawyers can guide you through the legal process of applying for relocation orders and ensuring the move is legally recognised.
PROPERTY SETTLEMENT & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Dividing property and financial resources after leaving an abusive relationship can be an overwhelming experience. Domestic violence can impact property settlements, as courts may consider the effects of family violence when determining a just and equitable division of assets.
At Ramsden Family Law, our experienced property settlement lawyers will help you secure a fair outcome while ensuring your safety and financial independence.
Under Section 79 of the Family Law Act, the court considers:
- Each party’s financial and non-financial contributions to the relationship.
- The future needs of both parties, including safety considerations.
- Whether family violence has resulted in economic harm (e.g., preventing a victim from working or controlling finances).
If family violence has significantly impacted your financial position, it can be factored into the property settlement, potentially increasing your entitlement to assets.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT
Domestic violence includes psychological, physical, verbal, sexual, reproductive, financial, and social abuse. Our experienced domestic violence lawyers provide comprehensive support in these matters, ensuring your safety and protecting your rights. We assist with applying for and responding to AVOs, representing you in court, and offering guidance on all aspects of domestic violence laws.
FIXED FEE DIVORCE APPLICATIONS
Divorce is a stressful and challenging experience. To alleviate some of the burdens, we offer fixed-fee divorce applications starting from $800 plus GST. This transparent pricing reduces stress, expense, and time, allowing you to focus on your future. Our divorce lawyers are highly experienced in both sole and joint applications and can provide quick turnaround times.
Child Protection
In cases involving children, the court gives paramount consideration to the best interests of the child. Our team ensures that any alleged domestic violence or child abuse is thoroughly examined and addressed, prioritising the safety and well-being of the child.
Applying or Responding to an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order
Going through the legal system in cases of domestic violence can be daunting. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are here to guide you through every step, providing clear and compassionate legal support.
Whether you need to apply for an apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO or AVO) or defend yourself against one, we offer comprehensive services to protect your rights and ensure your safety.
Applying for an AVO
We help you apply for an apprehended violence order by working with the NSW Police or through the local court. Our team provides the necessary legal guidance and representation to secure the protection you need.
Responding to an AVO Application
If you have been named as the defendant in an AVO application, our lawyers will represent you in court, ensuring your rights are upheld and offering the best possible defence.
Why Choose Ramsden Family Law?
Our specialised team of approximately 16 family lawyers, including 4 accredited specialists, exclusively practices family and domestic violence law, ensuring you receive expert legal representation from experienced Sydney domestic violence lawyers.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Ramsden Family Law is recognised as one of the leading family law firms in Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. Our dedication to excellence has earned us numerous accolades and positive client testimonials.
TRANSPARENT FEES
We offer fixed fees for certain services and payment plans and provide upfront fee estimates, ensuring transparency and affordability in our legal services.
QUICK TURNAROUND AND EFFICIENCY
With an extensive support team, we ensure that each lawyer’s workload is manageable, allowing for quick turnaround times and efficient case handling.
RESOLUTION-FOCUSED APPROACH
Our experienced lawyers explore all options to resolve your case without court intervention whenever possible, prioritising amicable solutions and minimising stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I'M EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?
If you are experiencing domestic violence, your safety is the most important priority. Reach out to the police or a local domestic violence hotline for immediate assistance. Then, contact our experienced domestic violence lawyers, who can help you understand your legal options and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
HOW CAN I APPLY FOR AN APPREHENDED VIOLENCE ORDER (AVO)?
You can apply for an AVO, which is a type of domestic violence order, by contacting the NSW Police, who can make the application on your behalf. Alternatively, you can attend your local court and make the application yourself. Our lawyers can guide you through the process, ensuring all necessary documentation is completed accurately and effectively.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM NAMED AS A DEFENDANT IN AN AVO APPLICATION?
If you are named as a defendant in an AVO application, it is important to seek legal advice immediately. You will need to attend court, where our lawyers can represent you, ensuring your rights are protected and offering a robust defence against the domestic violence allegation.
CAN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGES BE DROPPED?
Domestic violence charges can sometimes be dropped if there is insufficient evidence or if the defence can effectively challenge the prosecution’s case. Our experienced lawyers have a proven track record of successfully defending clients and getting charges dropped or reduced.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR RESPONDING TO A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGE?
If you are charged with a domestic violence offence, you will need to attend court to either consent to orders being made or challenge them. If your domestic violence offence is paired with criminal charges, you will either enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. It is crucial to seek legal representation to guide you through this process, help you gather evidence, and present a strong defence. Our lawyers will support you every step of the way, from the initial court appearance to the final resolution of your case.
HOW DOES A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CONVICTION AFFECT CHILD CUSTODY ARRANGEMENTS?
A domestic violence conviction can significantly impact child custody arrangements, as the court prioritises the safety and well-being of the child. Our lawyers can provide guidance on how to navigate these complex issues and work to protect your parental rights while ensuring the best interests of your child are met.
Emergency Assistance for Domestic Violence
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency due to domestic violence, please take the following steps to ensure your safety:
- Call 000: For immediate police assistance, call 000 and ask for help. This is the quickest way to get protection and support in an emergency situation.
- NSW Domestic Violence Line: Call the 24/7 helpline at 1800 656 463 for confidential support, advice, and referrals.
- National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: Call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for 24/7 counselling and support.
Your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities, Ramsden Family Law is here to ensure you get the protection and support you need. Contact us today to get started.
Keeping Your Family Protected at All Costs
At Ramsden Family Law, we are the leading domestic violence lawyers in Sydney, dedicated to providing compassionate, expert legal support for individuals facing these sensitive matters.
Our specialised team of family lawyers is committed to protecting your rights, ensuring your safety, and achieving the best possible outcomes for your case.
We understand the sensitive nature of domestic violence matters and are here to guide you through every step of the process with clarity, support, and unwavering dedication.
