Domestic Violence & Protection Order Lawyers

Urgent and compassionate legal assistance for victims of domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Legal Services

Domestic violence is a serious matter requiring immediate and expert legal assistance. Our experienced Auckland domestic violence lawyers provide compassionate support and urgent legal help to protect you and your family.

Our Domestic Violence Services Include:

Urgent applications for protection orders
Representation in protection order proceedings
Advice on responding to protection order applications
Assistance with breaches of protection orders
Parenting arrangements in domestic violence situations
Coordination with support services and agencies

Protection Orders in New Zealand

A protection order is a court order that helps protect people from domestic violence. Understanding the process and your rights is essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of your children.

Types of Protection Orders

Protection orders can be applied for on a 'without notice' basis (temporary order granted immediately without hearing from the respondent) in urgent situations, or 'on notice' (where the respondent has an opportunity to respond before the order is made).

What Protection Orders Cover

Protection orders include non-violence conditions (preventing physical, sexual, and psychological abuse) and non-contact conditions (preventing the respondent from contacting you or coming to your home or workplace). They can also include provisions for the surrender of firearms.

Who Can Be Protected

Protection orders can cover you, your children, and other people in your household. They apply against people in domestic relationships with you, including current or former partners, family members, flatmates, or close personal relationships.

Duration and Enforcement

Once final, protection orders remain in force permanently unless discharged by the court. Breaching a protection order is a criminal offense with serious penalties, including imprisonment.

Our Approach to Domestic Violence Cases

Urgent Response

We prioritize domestic violence cases and provide immediate assistance to ensure your safety and protection.

Compassionate Support

We understand the emotional impact of domestic violence and provide supportive, non-judgmental legal assistance.

Comprehensive Protection

We address all aspects of your situation, including safety, children's arrangements, and property matters.

Coordinated Support

We work with support agencies and services to ensure you have access to all available assistance.

Support for Respondents

We also provide legal advice and representation for respondents to protection order applications, ensuring fair process and appropriate outcomes.

Clear advice on the implications of protection orders
Representation in protection order proceedings
Guidance on compliance with protection orders

Immediate Help

If you are in immediate danger, please call emergency services on 111.

For confidential support and information, you can also contact:

Family Violence Information Line: 0800 456 450
Women's Refuge: 0800 REFUGE (733 843)
Shine Helpline: 0508 744 633

Domestic Violence & Protection Orders FAQs

What is a protection order and how do I get one in New Zealand?

A protection order in New Zealand is a court order that helps protect people from domestic violence. It prevents the respondent (person who has been violent) from contacting you or your children, coming to your home or workplace, and may require them to surrender firearms. To get a protection order, you need to apply to the Family Court. In urgent situations, the court can grant a temporary protection order without notifying the respondent (called a 'without notice' application). A lawyer can help prepare your application, including an affidavit detailing the violence and why you need protection.

Who can apply for a protection order?

In New Zealand, you can apply for a protection order if you're in a domestic relationship with the person you need protection from. This includes: current or former spouses, partners, or de facto partners; family members; people who share a household; and close personal relationships. You can also apply for protection for your children or other people in your family. If you're under 16, a representative (like a parent or guardian) must apply on your behalf unless the court gives special permission.

What happens after a protection order is granted?

When a protection order is granted in New Zealand, it takes effect immediately and has two main components: non-violence conditions (which are always included) and non-contact conditions (which can be suspended). The respondent must surrender firearms and their firearms license. If it's a temporary order, a hearing will be scheduled where the respondent can respond. If they don't oppose it, the order becomes final. If they do oppose it, a court hearing will determine if the order becomes final. Protection orders don't expire—they remain in force permanently unless discharged by the court.

What should I do if a protection order is breached?

If someone breaches a protection order in New Zealand, you should immediately contact the police by calling 111 if you're in danger, or the local police station if it's not an emergency. Breaching a protection order is a criminal offense with penalties including imprisonment. Document the breach with details of what happened, when, and any witnesses. Inform your lawyer, who can help with further legal action. Keep a record of all breaches, even minor ones, as a pattern of breaches can lead to more serious consequences for the respondent.

Can a protection order be changed or cancelled?

Yes, protection orders in New Zealand can be modified or discharged (cancelled). Either party can apply to the Family Court to vary or discharge the order. To change specific conditions, you can apply to vary the order. To remove the order completely, you apply for a discharge. The court will only discharge a protection order if satisfied that it's no longer necessary for the protection of you and your children. The court considers factors like the respondent's behavior since the order was made, your views, and whether there's still risk of violence. Legal advice is strongly recommended before applying to change or discharge a protection order.

Speak to a Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

Get urgent legal assistance with domestic violence matters and protection orders.

Free Consultation