Domestic Violence Lawyers

Domestic Violence Lawyers Melbourne

Domestic and family violence matters involve allegations of threats, assault, coercive behaviour, or property damage within a current or former intimate or family relationship.

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, our experienced criminal lawyers regularly act in complex domestic violence matters across Victoria. These cases are treated extremely seriously by the Courts and often involve parallel intervention order proceedings alongside criminal charges.

If you have been charged or are under investigation for a family violence offence, it is critical to obtain legal advice early to protect your position and ensure the best possible outcome.

What is Domestic or Family Violence?

Domestic or family violence refers to a broad range of behaviours used to control, intimidate, or harm a partner, former partner, or family member.

It can include:

Physical assault or violence
Threats of harm or intimidation
Sexual or emotional abuse
Psychological or coercive behaviour
Financial or economic control
Damaging property
Any behaviour causing a person to fear for their safety or well-being

Family violence may also include conduct where a child is exposed to or affected by violent behaviour, even if the conduct is not directed at them.

In Victoria, family violence is governed primarily by the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic).

Domestic Violence Charges in Victoria

A wide range of criminal offences may be charged in a family violence context, including:

Assault and aggravated assault
Threats to kill or cause serious injury
Stalking and intimidation
Property damage and criminal damage offences
Breaches of intervention orders

The nature of the relationship between the parties means these matters are treated as aggravated offending and are prioritised by the Courts.

Sentences can include fines, community corrections orders, and terms of imprisonment depending on the seriousness of the allegations.

Intervention Orders and Family Violence

Almost all domestic violence matters involve an application for an Intervention Order (IVO).

An intervention order may:

Prohibit contact or communication
Restrict attendance at a shared residence or location
Impose conditions relating to children or family members
Restrict online or indirect contact

Although an intervention order is a civil order and does not create a criminal record, breaching an order is a criminal offence and can result in imprisonment.

Because criminal charges and intervention order proceedings often run in parallel, it is essential that both matters are managed strategically.

Why Early Legal Advice Matters

Family violence matters progress quickly through the court system and often involve urgent bail, intervention order hearings, and police opposition.

Early legal advice can make a significant difference to:

Whether charges proceed or are withdrawn
Bail outcomes and conditions
Defence strategy and evidence preparation
Negotiation of charges or resolution outcomes
Management of intervention order conditions

Strategic decisions made at the beginning of a matter can significantly impact the final result.

Defending Domestic Violence Charges

If you have been charged with a domestic violence offence, it is essential to obtain advice from experienced criminal lawyers as early as possible.

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we assess:

The strength of the prosecution case
Whether a viable defence is available
The risks of proceeding to contest charges
Whether charges can be negotiated or reduced
The potential penalties if found guilty

Where appropriate, we also assist clients in preparing plea materials, rehabilitation evidence, and submissions to achieve the most favourable sentencing outcome.

Will I Go to Jail?

Domestic violence offences are treated seriously by Victorian Courts.

Whether imprisonment is imposed depends on:

The seriousness of the alleged offending
Prior criminal history
The nature of the relationship and any breach of trust
Whether violence or threats were involved
Any aggravating circumstances

Even first-time offenders can face the risk of imprisonment in serious cases. Early legal advice is critical to understanding your exposure and options.

When Should You Contact a Family Violence Lawyer?

You should seek urgent legal advice if you have:

Been charged with a family violence offence
Been contacted or questioned by police
Received an intervention order application
Been accused of breaching an intervention order

Because these matters often involve overlapping criminal and civil proceedings, specialist legal advice is essential to avoid unintended consequences.