Domestic violence proceedings can involve urgent questions of safety, residence, finances and children. A private, fact-specific review is important because immediate protection and the longer court process may require different steps.
This guide gives general preparation information for people seeking relief and for people required to respond. It is not an emergency service.
If there is immediate danger
Contact the police or an appropriate emergency/support service. Do not delay urgent safety action to collect documents or arrange a routine consultation.
Prepare a clear chronology
Record important events with dates or approximate periods, locations, people present and any later complaint, treatment or communication. Distinguish what you personally witnessed from what another person told you.
- Existing complaint, notice or court papers
- Medical, police or protection records
- Relevant messages, emails or photographs
- Residence and household information
- Financial needs and child-related arrangements
Reliefs depend on the facts
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act provides for forms of relief that may include protection, residence, monetary relief, custody and compensation. The appropriate request and forum depend on the evidence and individual situation.
Responding to proceedings
Read the complaint, application, interim order and next-date information completely. Prepare a paragraph-wise factual response and preserve relevant records. Do not contact or pressure another person contrary to an order or legal advice.
Coordinate connected family cases
Tell the lawyer about every divorce, maintenance, custody, criminal or other connected proceeding. Consistency of facts and disclosure of existing orders are important.