What is an Intervention Order?
In our Victorian legal system, Intervention Orders (IVOs) come in two forms and the type of order sought will depend upon the nature of the relationship between the applicant (the person who seeks the order), and the respondent (the person alleged to have been responsible for the behaviour, and to whom the order is directed).
- Family Violence Intervention Orders
An order sought where a person alleges abuse at the hands of a family member or domestic partner. - Personal Safety Intervention Orders
An order sought where a person seeks protection in response to an allegation of stalking by another person.
I Have Been Served With an Application for an Intervention Order
The law governing the determination of applications for both types of Orders can be found in the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic) and the Personal Safety Intervention Orders Act 2010 (Vic).
Commencing an Application for an Intervention Order begins the process to is to obtain a Court Order conferring protection upon the applicant (in the Family Violence context, the applicant is referred to as the Affected Family Member) on either an interim or final basis depending upon the particular circumstances of the case.
An application can be made by the police, a family member, or person where they can show that there has been family violence or prohibited behaviour.
Based on the information in the application, the court will decide whether it needs to make a court order to protect the applicant from family violence or from prohibited behaviour.
Orders relating to family violence can have significant consequences for both Applicants and Respondents.
It is important that legal advice is sought at the earliest opportunity so that you have a clear understanding of your rights and options, particularly with respect to children’s involvement in the process. Engaging legal representation at the earliest possible stage ensures matters that proceed to through the courts are expertly prepared and that you are supported through the process with professional advice and guidance.
Learn more by downloading our free information book Understanding Family Violence Intervention Orders.
