Personal Safety and Protection During Separation

Your safety and legal rights matter during separation. We give clear advice and take practical steps to help keep you and your family safe. We can help with safety planning, intervention orders and urgent legal steps if you are at risk of harm.

• Separation and personal safety

  Separation can increase the risk of family violence, intimidation or harassment, making personal safety a priority. We help you understand your legal options so you can take practical steps to protect yourself, your children and your home. Our team provides clear advice in a calm, confidential environment and works with you to respond quickly when safety concerns arise.​

• Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs)

  If you are experiencing family violence, a Family Violence Intervention Order can provide legal protection from a partner, former partner or family member. We advise you on whether an FVIO is appropriate, help you apply for an interim order where urgent protection is needed, and represent you at court hearings. We can also assist if you have been served with an FVIO and need advice about your rights, obligations and options for responding.​

• Personal Safety Intervention Orders (PSIOs)

  Personal Safety Intervention Orders apply where there is no family relationship, such as neighbours, colleagues or acquaintances. These orders can address stalking, threats, harassment or other concerning behaviour. We guide you through the application process, explain what conditions the court can impose, and appear for you in court to seek appropriate protections. If you are responding to a PSIO application, we provide strategic advice and representation to protect your interests.​

• Breach of intervention orders

  Allegations of breaching an intervention order are serious and can have criminal consequences. If you believe an order has been breached, we can explain your options, including reporting to police and gathering evidence to support your safety. If you are accused of breaching an FVIO or PSIO, we help you understand the charges, your prospects of defending them, and the impact on any ongoing family law proceedings.​

• How HOCW can help

  Our lawyers take a careful, trauma‑informed approach to separation and safety issues. We work alongside other professionals and support services where appropriate and focus on practical solutions that prioritise your wellbeing. If you are concerned about your safety during or after separation, contact HOCW’s family law team in Melbourne for confidential advice about your options.