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There are two types of Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) our AVO lawyers can assist you with:
AVO matters for the Orange area are heard in the Local Court of NSW. We help clients in Orange, Bathurst, Blayney, Molong, Cowra, Parkes and across the Central West.
Reviewed by Julie Vass, Special Counsel · November 2026
Orange · by appointment only
Dubbo · by appointment only
Phone and video appointments available
An AVO aims to protect a person from:
Generally, NSW Police will apply for an AVO. In some circumstances, the person seeking protection can apply themselves when police won’t assist. AVOs at the Local Court of NSW →
Call 000.
For confidential support, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
If there’s no immediate danger, but you are a victim of physical assault, sexual assault, threats of physical or sexual harm, stalking, intimidation or harassment, and you fear for your safety and reasonably believe the behaviour will continue, you should go to the police to seek an AVO.
Intimidation, harassment and stalking can happen in person, or by phone calls, text messages, emails or social media.
The police will take a statement from you and can issue an interim (temporary) AVO to protect you until the final AVO is heard by the Court.
If the defendant doesn’t comply with the conditions of an AVO, that’s a criminal offence. It should be reported to police, who can charge the defendant.
Clear advice. Real support. People in your corner.
Most family law matters in Orange are resolved without a judge. We focus on negotiation, mediation and agreement wherever possible, and if court is needed, you’ll have experienced advocates beside you.
If you’ve been served with an application for an AVO, the first step is to call ALA Law and discuss the best option for your circumstances. You can:
If you’re going through a separation and you’re served with an AVO, it’s extremely important to get experienced legal advice immediately. The outcome of your AVO matter can affect the arrangements put in place for your children to spend time with you.
The Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) defines family violence in section 4AB, and if the Court finds that family violence has occurred, this will affect the parenting arrangements that are made. Family violence, including economic abuse, can also be relevant to a property settlement.
That’s why having a lawyer who understands both family law and AVOs is so important.
Special Counsel · Solicitor in Charge, Orange, Dubbo & Orana
Julie leads our family law work for clients in Orange and across the Central West. Admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales in 1998, she brings more than 25 years’ experience across all areas of family law, with particular skill in dispute resolution and arbitration.
Clients value Julie’s kind, considerate and compassionate approach. She’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and your family.
Julie is supported by ALA Law’s family law Partners Amanda Little, Rosemary Aloisio and Bernadette Melhem, each an Accredited Specialist in Family Law.
An ADVO protects people in a domestic relationship, such as a partner, ex-partner or family member. An APVO protects people who aren’t in a domestic relationship, such as neighbours or co-workers.
Yes. You can consent to an AVO on a “without admissions” basis, which means you agree to the order without agreeing that what’s in the statement is true. Get advice first, as it can still affect family law matters.
Breaching an AVO is a criminal offence. It should be reported to police, who can charge the person who breached it.
It can. The Court must consider family violence and safety when making parenting orders, so the outcome of an AVO matter can affect the time you spend with your children.
AVO matters are heard in the Local Court of NSW. We can advise and represent you, and help with any related family law issues.
Book a confidential appointment. We’ll listen, explain your options and help you take the next step with confidence.