Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)

An Apprehended Violence Order, or AVO as they are commonly known, are imposed by the police or the courts where there is a person deemed to be in need of protection as a result of alleged or actual violence, intimidation or harassment. They are an increasingly common instrument in the criminal justice system given the increasing public awareness surrounding issues of domestic violence and violence again women more generally.

There are two types of AVOs: an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) and an Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO). ADVOs are normally imposed where there is a domestic relationship between the persons involved who are usually living together. APVOs are imposed where the persons are neither related nor living together. It is also common for AVOs to be made in conjunction with formal criminal charges in relation to the allegations of violence, intimidation or harassment.

You should be aware that whilst you may consent to an AVO without making any admissions the consequences of an order include:

• seizure of any firearms in your possession, revocation of your firearms licence and a 10 year ban on applying for a new licence;

• where children are involved, precluding your ability to work in jobs that have contact with children such as teaching or childcare; and

• affecting any licence you may hold to work as a security officer and any other job requiring security checks and clearances.

If you have had an AVO made against you or, you wish to have an AVO issued against another person, it is important you seek legal advice immediately by calling our office on 02 8039 7497 or Paul FC McGirr directly 24 hours 7 days a week on 0405 508 099.