APPREHENDED VIOLENCE ORDERS (ADVO)

Breach of ADVO

Although an ADVO is heard and determined by the local Court it is not a criminal charge. A breach of an ADVO, however, is a criminal offence.

The maximum penalty on conviction is a $5,500 fine and/or two years imprisonment. If the breach constitutes an act of violence and the defendant is at least 18 years of age, then a custodial sentence is the starting point.

If you are a protected person pursuant to the ADVO and the defendant has breached the ADVO you should contact the police and report the breach, the defendant will be charged with an offence and brought before the Court.

If you have been charged with breaching an ADVO, you should contact the team at Holmes Donnelly & Co Solicitors for advice.