Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Scheme
The Women's Domestic Violence Court Assistance Scheme (WDVCAS) operates at Parramatta and Ryde Local Courts, to assist women with Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs).
There are other Schemes operating in other courts in NSW.
- What is an ADVO?
- How do I apply for an ADVO?
- Do I need representation?
- What support services can the Scheme provide for me?
- Do I have to pay?
An Apprehended Domestic Violence Order is an order made by a court restricting the behaviour of the person you take the order out against, with whom you have had or are in a domestic relationship with.
The purpose of an ADVO is to protect you from violence, harassment or intimidation in the future.
The person who has the order made against them does not get a criminal record because they are subject to this order, but may get a criminal record if they breach the order.
You can apply for an ADVO in two ways:
- Through the police (called a 'police complaint') or
- Through the Chamber Magistrate at any local court (called a 'private complaint').
If you have applied for a 'police complaint' then the police prosecutor will speak in court regarding your application and you do not need a solicitor to represent you. However the Court Assistance Scheme is still available to offer you support.
If you have applied for a 'private complaint', the Court Assistance Scheme can offer you assistance with legal representation in mentions in addition to the support services.
What Support services can the scheme provide for me?
A support worker at the court assistance scheme will:
- provide you with information about ADVOs
- make sure you know what will happen in court
- organise a legal representative for you if you don't already have one and can go with you to court to support you
- refer you to other organisations that can also help you
A solicitor will:
- advise you about the legal orders you are applying for and/or
- go with you into the court room and represent you
Services of the WDVCAS are free.
People with private applications may need to pay a private solicitor if the matter is set down for a defended hearing. Legal Aid is available subject to a means test. Scheme workers will be able to assist you with what to do next if your matter goes to a hearing.
Disclaimer: Warning: The information contained on this site is general and is not intended to be advice on any matter. It is for information only and is not legal advice. You must not rely on the information contained in this site. if you have a legal problem you must talk with a solicitor. to the extent permissible by law, Macquarie Legal Centre disclaims all liability for anything contained on or accessed via this site and any use you make of it. The information presented is for the State of New South Wales and is only applicable for that State.
WE OPERATE AT: Ryde Local Court |
Interested in Volunteering? Court Support workers are trained workers with a social work background who are supported by their agencies to participate in the Court Support roster as part of their work. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Bridget on 8833 0911. |