Bail, AVOs & Appeals
AVOs & Apprehended Violence Orders
Whether you need an AVO or need to defend one, the terms of the order matter for years.
An Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) is a civil order, but it can carry heavy consequences: conditions that affect where you live and who you see, effects on firearms and some employment, and a criminal charge if it is breached. AVOs often run alongside criminal charges.
City Group Legal acts for both people who need protection and people defending an order, working to get the conditions and the outcome right, because the terms of an order last.
What's at stake. An AVO itself is not a criminal conviction, but breaching an AVO is a criminal offence carrying a maximum of 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine. The conditions imposed can significantly affect daily life, which is why they are worth getting right.
How we defend avos & apprehended violence orders
Where you are defending an order, we test whether the legal grounds are made out and negotiate conditions that protect you from unnecessary restrictions. Where you need protection, we prepare the application properly. Where an AVO runs with criminal charges, we manage both together.
Frequently asked
Is an AVO a criminal charge?
No. An AVO is a civil protective order, so it is not a criminal conviction and does not itself give you a record. But breaching one is a criminal offence, and the conditions can significantly affect your life.
Can I agree to an AVO 'without admissions'?
Often, yes. Consenting to an order without admissions can resolve a matter without any finding that the allegations are true. Whether it is the right course depends on the conditions and your circumstances, we advise on that.
AVOs lawyers near you
The earlier we start, the more we can do.
Whether you’ve been charged, arrested, or are helping a family member, the earliest advice is the most valuable.