Robbins Watson Logo
Robbins Watson Logo
U
ENQUIRE

home Our Expertise Family Law Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence

If you need to apply for a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) or defend yourself against one, our experienced Gold Coast family lawyers are here to help. If you or your children are at risk of harm, call 000 immediately for urgent assistance.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence goes beyond physical harm—it includes emotional, psychological, financial, sexual, and coercive abuse. Many victims may not realise they are experiencing domestic violence. Our compassionate legal team can guide you through this difficult time and help ensure your safety.

Unlike family law, domestic violence is governed by state legislation and is dealt with in the local Magistrates Court.

How We Can Help

At Robbins Watson Solicitors, we specialise in domestic violence cases and provide expert legal support with the following:

  • Applying for a Protection Order to safeguard you and your family
  • Advising on a Police Protection Notice issued by law enforcement
  • Defending Against a Protection Order if false allegations have been made
  • Varying or Removing a Protection Order when circumstances change
  • Ensuring the Removal of a Perpetrator from the family home
  • Protecting Children & Extended Family Members from harm
  • Withdrawing an Application if the situation has been resolved
  • Advising on the Impact of Domestic Violence on property settlements and parenting matters

Types of Domestic Violence Orders

There are two types of Domestic Violence orders: 

Temporary Protection Order

This order provides immediate protection and is issued by the Magistrate after an initial application. It can be made without the accused person being present and remains in effect until a protection order is made or the application is withdrawn.

Protection Order (Final Order)

A final protection order lasts for up to five years and is issued when:

  • the court finds that domestic violence has occurred and that it is necessary or desirable to prevent further harm to the victim; or
  • the accused consents to the order without admitting to the allegations.

Why Choose Us?

  • Expertise in Domestic Violence Law – We understand Queensland’s domestic violence legislation and provide strategic legal advice.
  • Compassionate & Confidential Support – We handle every case with care, ensuring your safety and rights are protected.
  • Experienced Court Representation – Our skilled lawyers advocate for you in the Gold Coast Magistrates Court.
  • Tailored Legal Solutions – Every case is unique, and we provide personalized legal strategies to meet your needs.

Get in touch

Whether you need protection from domestic violence or legal defence against false claims, our expert lawyers are here to help. Contact Robbins Watson Solicitors today to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced family lawyers. 

To book an appointment, you can:

  • Call us on 07 5576 9999
  • Book an appointment online by clicking here
  • Fill out our online enquiry form by clicking here

Alternatively, you can get started online now and receive a free personalised welcome pack in minutes.

Meet the team

Ruth Jeffers

Partner

Alexandra Coyle

Senior Associate

Emily Molloy

Solicitor

Why choose Robbins Watson Solicitors?

Discover what makes us different.

Experience you can count on

With over 60 years in business, we position our clients and their businesses with the best advice to enable them to prosper.

We’re committed to you

We recognise your needs, assess specific priorities and objectives and develop strategies to meet them.

Enduring relationships

We generously invest time and expertise to understand our clients and build beneficial long-term relationships.

Efficient teams

We embrace technology to ensure our clients outcomes are delivered quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively.

What our clients have to say

As first home buyers Emma from Robbins Watson made the experience stress free. With her professional service and excellent knowledge of industry. Couldn't recommend her more. Thank you!

Kimberley G

Very pleased with this firm and the outcome we received. Highly recommend Robbins Watson for any Family Law matters.

Cate B

Sean and his team have always been incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. Couldn’t recommend Robbins Watson Solicitors more!

B.M.

I recently had the opportunity to work with Alexandra Coyle, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. From the outset, she demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a deep understanding of the legal issues involved which was very reassuring. I felt well-informed throughout the process, and she worked tirelessly to ensure a successful outcome for me. I’m glad I reached out to this firm. Thank you for making a challenging situation so manageable. I highly recommend Alexandra for anyone seeking reliable and empathetic legal assistance.

Justyna B

I was so pleased with Bell’s work. I found her easy to get along with, explain things clearly and make the whole process calm. I would recommend her to anyone going through an estate dispute.

Taylah C

Marcus, thank you again for your support throughout the settlement process, we very much appreciate your professionalism, advice and communication from start to finish! We would be happy to recommend Robbins Watson to our family and friends.

Angela

Good morning – just wanted to send a quick email off and let you know how impressed (my wife and myself) have been with Emma – We have bought a couple of properties up there over the last year or two – we’re from Wagga Wagga, NSW and are relocating up there at the end of this year. Emma has been absolutely fantastic to deal with and we couldn’t be happier!!! It makes things really easy when you have someone on the ball like she is – so yeah, just a quick ‘Well done’ – thanks so much, we really appreciate it and keep up the good work!

Jarrod

Thank you again for your services, I cannot fault you and your team. You are always such a pleasure to deal with and make what would normally be a stressful time, quite the opposite.

Emma (& Helen)

Please extend my warmest thanks to All that have assisted me. You all have made the process of dealing with Wills, selling property, and soon with my own Will and things. Robbins Watson have exceeded my expectations in ability, personal interactions, pleasant meetings; in short, you are my Solicitors of choice, and I say so to any and all.

George

Ready to talk ? Book an initial consultation.

We can discuss your case and identify how we can work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.

Send us an enquiry Schedule an appointment

or call a trusted advisor today
+61 7 5576 9999

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What constitutes domestic violence under Queensland law?

Domestic violence includes physical, emotional, economic or psychological abuse, threatening behaviour, coercive control and other conduct that causes fear or harm in a domestic relationship. Coercive control is also a standalone criminal offence in Queensland for conduct occurring from 26 May 2025.

How do I obtain a Domestic Violence Order (DVO)?

You can apply for a protection order at a Magistrates Court yourself or through the police, and the court may grant a temporary order pending a full hearing.

Can a DVO protect children?

Yes, children can be named on the order to ensure they are protected from exposure to domestic violence or associated behaviour.

Is breaching a DVO a criminal offence?

Breaching a domestic violence order is a criminal offence that can result in arrest, fines or imprisonment depending on the severity and history of breaches.

Where can victims get support on the Gold Coast?

People experiencing domestic violence can seek help from the police, domestic violence support services, shelters and legal aid for advice and assistance.