There’s no disputing that domestic or family violence is a Criminal law act that has no place in society. Regardless of the perpetrator, domestic violence is irrefutably wrong on any level, be it from a legal, health or socio-cultural perspective.
It is generally thought that men are the offenders in the vast majority of domestic violence cases. The federal government has identified this major and unacceptable problem, recently launching a $100 million women’s safety package to combat domestic violence against women and children.
However, a side effect of the current view is that men who suffer from domestic violence tend to feel a sense of shame about their abuse. Male victims also have less access to information and support.
Our team of Wollongong Lawyers is dedicated to fighting all cases of domestic violence, regardless of the perpetrator. In this blog, we provide some advice for men who are the victims of violence and what they can do.
What Counts As Abuse?
Perpetrators of violence against men include their wives or partners as well as parents, siblings, carers and children.
While men are stereotypically viewed as being stronger and bigger than women, abuse is not unheard of. Furthermore, it does not need to take the form of physical acts to count as violence.
The abuse of men, like that of women, can take many forms, including sexual, emotional, psychological, verbal and financial abuse, property damage and social isolation.
Action against Violence
The Family Law Act includes both physical and non-physical forms of abuse under domestic abuse. These definitions apply in NSW and throughout Australia.
If you feel intimidated, threatened or otherwise in fear for your well-being, the primary legal measure is to apply for an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) for protection or consult with family or divorce lawyers in Wollongong.
Police stations usually nominate someone to handle domestic violence matters, called Domestic Violence Liaison Officers. An AVO is a court order that will place restrictions on the person who is violent or abusive towards you. If the defendant breaches this order, they can then be convicted of a criminal offence in NSW, Australia.
If domestic violence has already occurred, such as an assault or being controlled or put under physical or financial duress, it is considered a criminal offence and should be reported to the police.
The police have the power to respond and exclude the violent person from your house if necessary. Where appropriate, they may also charge the violent person with assault.
Contact DGB Lawyers
If you are a victim of domestic violence our criminal lawyers and family law specialists can help you take action.
For reliable, responsive and personalised legal advice, contact DGB Lawyers.
Contact us via email at dgb@dgblaw.com.au or through our online contact form.
Alternatively, you can call or visit our Solicitors in our Wollongong office:
96 Kembla Street, Wollongong,
NSW 2500
Ph. (02) 4229 5699