Compassionate Domestic Violence Lawyers in Roodepoort and Ballito
Our domestic violence lawyers understand that these types of matters are particularly emotional and taxing for clients. For this reason, we take special care to ensure that our clients are assisted with dignity, compassion, and professionalism.
At Vermeulen Attorneys, we are well-equipped to deal with domestic violence matters on behalf of our clients. Whether you wish to launch proceedings to protect yourself against domestic violence or wish to oppose a domestic violence application that was wrongfully brought against you, we can help.
Domestic Violence Process
- The Applicant approaches the Domestic Violence Court with an Application Form.
- A Magistrate considers the Application and, if satisfied that a case has been made out, issues an Interim Protection Order.
- The Interim Protection Order and a copy of the Application are served on the Respondent (the person who committed the act of domestic violence).
- The Interim Protection Order will indicate a date for final consideration of the matter, on which date both Applicant and Respondent must be present at Court to state their case.
- If the Respondent wants to oppose the matter, they are required to prepare an Affidavit to show good cause to the Court why the Protection Order must not be made final. If they want to anticipate the Court date, they can do so on 24 hours’ written notice.
The matter is then heard at Court, and both Applicant and Respondent are given an opportunity to state their case. Once the Court has heard all the evidence, the Court will either make the Interim Protection Order final or set it aside. If the Respondent does not show up on this date, the order will usually be made final. If the Applicant does not show up, the order will usually be set aside.
Contact Us for Assistance
At Vermeulen Attorneys, we understand the complexities and emotions involved in domestic violence cases. Our experienced team is here to support you through every step of the process, whether you are seeking protection or defending against a wrongful claim.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated domestic violence lawyers are ready to provide compassionate and professional legal assistance to help you find resolution and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to approach the Domestic Violence Court. Will my spouse know that I have applied for a Protection Order?
My spouse has wrongfully taken out an Interim Protection Order against me, and I cannot see my children or enter my property. What can I do?
Can I be granted costs against someone in the Domestic Violence Court?
What constitutes domestic violence?
Domestic violence is any of the following:
- Physical abuse;
- Sexual abuse;
- Emotional, verbal and psychological abuse;
- Economic abuse;
- Intimidation;
- Harassment;
- Stalking;
- Damage to property;
- Entry into the complainant’s residence without consent, where the parties do no not share the same residence; and/or
Any other controlling or abusive behaviour towards a complainant.
