AVO, Aprehended Violence Order

An apprehended violence order (AVO) is a court order designed to protect a ‘person in need of protection’ (‘PINOP’) from violence, harassment, intimidation or stalking.

AVO’s may be made by police when they are concerned about the welfare or safety of a PINOP, even if the PINOP does not want an AVO to be issued.

These are known as ‘police AVOs.’ They are often issued following an alleged assault or sexual assault against the PINOP.

Alternatively, AVOs may be made by the PINOP themselves – these are known as ‘private AVOs’.

There are two types of Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs):

Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO)

An Apprehended Domestic Violence Order is made when the people involved are related or in a domestic relationship, such as a family member or a current or former spouse or partner.

Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO)

An Apprehended Personal Violence Order (also known as a ‘Private AVO’) is made when the people involved are not related or in a domestic relationship, such as work colleagues or neighbours.

Being the subject of an apprehended violence order (AVO) can take a significant toll on your life, affecting your relationships, reputation, career and your eligibility to obtain certain licenses including a firearms licence, a security licence, or even pass a working with children check.

If you have been issued with an AVO or have been threatened with one, our experienced criminal lawyers can help. Call our office on (02) 4324 5688 to speak to one of our experienced AVO lawyers about appealing or revoking an AVO.

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