Emotional Abuse and Family Violence Case

In Victoria, victims of family violence have several legal protections available. The main legal protection is an Intervention Order, which you have already obtained. It restricts the perpetrator's behaviour and provides safety measures. To access further protections, you can apply for a Family Violence Safety Notice or a Family Violence Intervention Order through the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. Additionally, the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 provides guidance on these processes. Legal Aid Victoria can offer assistance and advice throughout these proceedings. Furthermore, the Victoria Police can provide immediate protection and support in situations of family violence. For more details, visit the Victoria Legal Aid website or the Magistrates' Court of Victoria website.

To effectively document incidents of family violence and emotional abuse for legal purposes, start a detailed journal immediately. Record dates, times, and descriptions of each incident, including any verbal, physical, or financial abuse. Include any interactions with witnesses and note their contact information. Secure evidence like emails, text messages, and financial records showing unauthorised access to your online banking account. Photographs of injuries or damage can be crucial. Seek medical or psychological evaluations to support claims of physical or emotional harm. Maintain communication records with support services as they may offer corroborating evidence.

Support services play a crucial role in providing emotional support, safety planning, and resource coordination for individuals experiencing family violence. They can assist in navigating the legal system by connecting you with legal advocates or solicitors who specialise in family violence cases. These organisations may also offer counselling services, housing assistance, and financial advice, which can be critical when dealing with financial control issues, such as unauthorised access to your online banking details. Additionally, they can offer advocacy and refer you to other appropriate services, ensuring you have a comprehensive support network.

If the perpetrator denies the allegations of family violence or emotional abuse, consider gathering corroborating evidence such as testimony from witnesses, medical reports, and financial records showing control or misuse of funds. Since there are witnesses to the incidents and unauthorised use of your online banking details, such evidence can strengthen your case. You may request a hearing where evidence can be presented before a magistrate. Engaging a legal representative can further assist in presenting your case effectively.

The court can issue various orders to protect your safety and wellbeing during legal proceedings. As you are already under an intervention order, the court may extend or modify it to ensure ongoing protection. These orders can include conditions such as prohibiting contact or requiring the perpetrator to stay a certain distance away from you. Additionally, the court can impose further restrictions based on any breaches of the intervention order, especially given the financial control and unauthorised use of your online banking details.