In Western Australia what is a VRO?
In Western Australia, a VRO stands for “Violence Restraining Order.” It is a legal order issued by a court to protect a person from violence, threats of violence, or fear of violence. A VRO can be applied for by a person who has been subjected to violence or threats of violence by another person, including a family member, a current or former partner, or any other person. The order may include conditions such as restraining the perpetrator from approaching or contacting the person, or from entering certain places or areas. The purpose of a VRO is to keep the person safe and prevent further violence from occurring.
- Contact the police: You can report the family violence to the police and ask for their assistance in obtaining a FVRO. They will take a statement from you and may arrest the perpetrator if they believe that an offence has been committed.
- Apply for the FVRO: You can apply for a FVRO at your local Magistrates Court or through a lawyer. You will need to complete an application form and provide the court with information about the family violence, including any incidents that have occurred and the impact it has had on you.
- Attend a court hearing: A hearing will be scheduled for the court to consider your application. You will need to attend the hearing and give evidence about the family violence. The perpetrator will also be given an opportunity to be heard.
- Wait for the decision: After the hearing, the court will make a decision on whether to grant the FVRO. If the FVRO is granted, the court will issue the order and it will be served on the perpetrator.
- Keep yourself safe: While waiting for the FVRO and after it is granted, make sure you have a plan to keep yourself safe. You may need to stay in a shelter or with friends or family, or you may need to change your phone number or email address.
It’s important to know that you can also get legal assistance from a Community Legal Centre and Legal Aid of WA. They can also help you to navigate through the process, and also help you to understand your rights and how to protect yourself.
Call Rebus Legal on 1800 732 875 and request a free 15-minute consultation to assess your FVRO or VRO situation in one of our conveniently located offices in Victoria Park, Osborne Park or Joondalup.