Types of Intervention Orders

In Victoria, there are two primary types of intervention orders:

Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs):

Designed to protect individuals from family members who have committed acts of family violence.

Personal Safety Intervention Orders (PSIOs):

Aimed at protecting individuals from non-family members whose behaviour causes harm or fear.

Both orders are legal directives issued by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals who have experienced threatening or harmful behaviour.

Conditions of an Intervention Order

An intervention order sets specific conditions that the respondent (the person the order is against) must follow. These conditions may include:

• Prohibiting contact with the protected person
• Restricting the respondent from approaching the protected person’s home or workplace
• Preventing the respondent from engaging in specific behaviours, such as harassment or stalking

It’s essential to adhere strictly to these conditions, as any breach of this civil order is a criminal offence.

Consequences of Breaching an Intervention Order

What starts out as a civil order, becomes criminal if it is alleged that a breach has occurred. If a breach of a term of an IVO is proved, that will result in a criminal record, which can have long-term implications on employment, travel, and other aspects of life, as well as having negative impacts on Family Court proceedings, if they are on foot.

Responding to an Intervention Order

If you’ve been served with an intervention order, it is vital to:

• Seek Legal Advice Promptly: Understanding your rights and obligations is crucial. A lawyer can guide you through the process and represent you in court
• Comply with the Order: Even if you disagree with the order, you must comply with its conditions until it’s varied or revoked by the court
• Attend Court Hearings: Failure to attend scheduled hearings can result in the order being made final in your absence

At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, we provide expert legal assistance to respondents, ensuring they understand the legal process and their rights.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Navigating the complexities of intervention orders can be challenging. Whether you’re seeking to contest an order, understand its implications, or need representation in court, our experienced team at Emma Turnbull Lawyers is here to help. We offer confidential consultations to discuss your situation and provide tailored legal advice.

*Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalised legal assistance, please consult with a qualified legal professional.*