Being served with an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) in NSW can be stressful, confronting, and potentially damaging to your reputation. Therefore, it is essential to act quickly, understand your rights, and prepare an effective defence. At Pannu Lawyers, we have represented clients in both Domestic Violence and Personal Violence AVO matters, delivering strategic, results-driven representation. AVO matters are heard at the Blacktown Local Court on every Wednesday, Mount Druitt Local Court on every Monday, Parramatta Local Court on every Thursday and Penrith Local Court on every Tuesday.
Understanding an AVO in NSW
An AVO is a court order intended to protect a person who claims to fear violence, intimidation, or harassment. Importantly, there are two main types of AVOs in NSW:
Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) – involving people in a domestic or intimate relationship.
Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO) – involving individuals with no domestic connection.
Although an AVO is not a criminal conviction, breaching it is a serious criminal offence with severe penalties. Consequently, an AVO can also affect employment, firearms licences, and family law proceedings, making experienced criminal defence representation critical from the outset.
The allegations are false, exaggerated, or misleading.
There is insufficient evidence to support the claims.
The alleged fears are not reasonable in the circumstances.
The order would cause significant hardship, such as restricting contact with children or impacting career opportunities.
By identifying these issues early, the Best Criminal Lawyers in Sydney at Pannu Lawyers can begin building a strong defence.
The Process of Defending an AVO
Once engaged, we adopt a clear and methodical approach:
Case Assessment – We examine the allegations, police statements, and available evidence to assess the strength of the case.
Evidence Gathering – We obtain witness accounts, CCTV footage, phone records, and other supporting material to challenge the claims. This sometimes involves issues subpoena to Department of Homes Affairs to astrain if the underlying motive to seek ADVO is to secure permanent residency in Australia for certain applicants.
Court Mentions – We appear on your behalf to confirm your intention to contest the AVO and ensure procedural fairness.
Preparation for Hearing – We prepare detailed cross-examination questions, identify weaknesses in the applicant’s evidence, and develop a tailored strategy.
Final Hearing – We present your case to the Magistrate, exposing inconsistencies and demonstrating why the order should not be made.
Possible Outcomes
If you defend the AVO, the court may:
Dismiss the AVO – finding no reasonable grounds for the order.
Accept Undertakings – where parties agree to certain conditions without a formal AVO.
Vary the Order – reducing or altering conditions to limit disruption to your life.
Each outcome depends on the strength of your defence and the effectiveness of your legal representation.
Why Choose Pannu Lawyers ?
At Pannu Lawyers, we are recognised among the Best Criminal Lawyers in Sydney for our expertise in AVO defence. We understand that these matters require both careful preparation and, when necessary, a firm and assertive courtroom approach. Our priority is to protect your rights, preserve your reputation, and secure the best possible outcome.
If you have been served with an AVO, everyday counts. Contact Pannu Lawyers today via our contact page to arrange a confidential consultation with the Best Criminal Lawyers in Sydney and take the first step towards defending your case.
