Repute Law

AVO Lawyers Sydney

Sydney's Leading AVO Lawyers

When you’re facing an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) in New South Wales, it can feel like your world has turned upside down. The legal process may seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

At Repute Law, our experienced AVO lawyers in Sydney are here to help. We focus on defending your rights and ensuring that you get a fair hearing. Whether you’ve been served with an AVO or need to challenge one, we’re ready to stand by your side.

Principal & Founder

Understanding Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) in NSW

An AVO, or Apprehended Violence Order, is a court order issued in New South Wales to protect someone from violence, threats, stalking, intimidation, or harassment. It prohibits a specific person (the defendant) from engaging in these behaviours towards another person (the protected person or person in need of protection ‘PINOP’).

The primary purpose of an AVO is to promote safety by:

  • Stopping further violence or threats of violence.
  • Reducing the fear of violence for the protected person.


There are two main types of AVOs which depends upon the relationship of the person seeking the order, the PINOP, and the person who the order has been taken out against, the defendant.

Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO)

This applies to people who are or have been in a domestic relationship, including family members, partners, or ex-partners.

Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO)

This applies to people who are not in a domestic relationship with each other, such as a neighbour or a work colleague.

Proven Results

30,000 Criminal Cases experience

Three Types of AVOs

  • Provisional AVO: Only a police officer can apply for a provisional order. This can be done by telephone, facsimile, or other communication device and is generally done without the defendant having an opportunity to be heard. It remains in force at least until the matter is first listed in Court when it is made an Interim AVO.
  • Interim AVO: An order made by the Court where it agrees it is necessary or appropriate for someone to have temporary protection. It can be taken out privately and does not require police involvement. 
  • Final AVO: A Final AVO is granted upon conclusion of the court process if the court determines an AVO for a specified period, usually two years, is necessary for the adequate protection of the person in need of protection, ‘PINOP”.  

SUCCESSFUL REPUTATION

A team made up of only Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers

The Difference Between ADVOs and APVOs

While both ADVOs and APVOs aim to protect individuals from violence and fear of violence, they differ based on the type of relationship between the applicant and the respondent.

ADVO (Apprehended Domestic Violence Order):

Issued in domestic relationships, including current or former spouses, de facto partners, relatives, or people who have lived together.

Additional grounds for fear of intimidation: In addition to threats and stalking, ADVO applications can consider a wider range of behaviours that cause fear for the applicant, such as:

  • Isolating them from friends and family
  • Controlling their finances
  • Repeatedly monitoring their movements
  • Coercive control

Insider Knowledge

Former Prosecutors on Your Side

APVO (Apprehended Personal Violence Order):

  • Issued in non-domestic relationships, such as between neighbours, co-workers, or acquaintances.

In essence, ADVOs provide a broader scope of protection due to the potentially complex dynamics within domestic relationships.

Speak With A Lawyer

If you're looking for a senior criminal lawyer with 20+ years experience handling cases like yours, book your consultation today. It costs nothing to know where you stand with the law.

Do You Need an AVO Lawyer in Sydney?

Apprehended violence order cases can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Whether you’re facing an AVO application, served with a personal or domestic violence order, or looking to revoke or modify an existing one, seeking legal representation from one of our criminal lawyers in Sydney is essential. Here’s why:

  • Facing a domestic and personal violence order (ADVO or APVO): If someone is bringing an order against you for a domestic or personal violence offence, it’s critical to understand your legal rights and the serious consequences you may face. An AVO lawyer in our Sydney firm can guide you through the process, help you prepare your response, and ensure your voice is heard in local court.
  • Served with an AVO (ADVO or APVO): Receiving an apprehended violence order can be overwhelming. An AVO lawyer can explain the conditions of the order, assess potential impacts, and advise on the best course of action.
  • Wanting to Vary or Challenge an Existing Domestic Violence Offence (ADVO or APVO): Circumstances can change. An AVO lawyer can help you navigate the legal process of varying the conditions of an existing AVO or even challenging it altogether if the circumstances warrant it.


Apprehended violence order cases involve intricate legal procedures and evidence presentation, whether you are the defendant or the protected person. Legal expertise is required to understand the specific type of AVO (ADVO or APVO), the grounds for the application, and the potential consequences. If an AVO is breached, you will face a criminal charge that carries penalties, including imprisonment.

An experienced apprehended violence order (AVO) lawyer can:

  • Protect your rights throughout the legal process.
  • Challenge the making of an order entirely or negotiate the conditions it contains 
  • Advocate for your best interests in court proceedings.
  • Ensure the personal violence order reflects the true situation fairly.
  • Help you understand the potential consequences of an AVO.
  • Guide you through the complexities of AVO law in Sydney.

Why Choose Us for Your Domestic & Personal Violence Case

Experienced AVO Lawyers

Our team has extensive experience handling ADVO and APVO cases in Sydney.

Understanding & Compassionate

We understand the sensitive nature of AVO cases and treat our clients with empathy and respect.

Clear Communication

We will keep you informed throughout the legal process and are always available to answer your questions.

Client-Centred Approach

We work closely with you to understand your situation and develop a tailored legal strategy for your ADVO or APVO case.

How We Can Help with Your Apprehended Violence Order Case

We understand that apprehended violence order cases, whether ADVOs or APVOs in Sydney, can be stressful and complex. Our skilled AVO lawyers are by your side to navigate the process, safeguard your rights, and secure the best results.

Representing Applicants (ADVO & APVO):

  • ADVOs: If you’ve experienced domestic violence and need an ADVO, our compassionate lawyers will walk you through the application process with sensitivity and support.
  • APVOs: If you’re experiencing fear or harassment from someone outside your domestic circle, our lawyers will fight for your safety and well-being by securing the appropriate APVO.

In both ADVO and APVO cases, our team will guide you throughout the process, ensuring your voice is heard, and the order reflects the actual situation.

Representing Respondents (ADVO & APVO):

You have rights if you’ve been served with apprehended violence orders (ADVO or APVO). Our experienced criminal lawyers will:

  • Defend your rights fiercely: We will ensure your case is thoroughly prepared and argued in the Local Court and explore all legal options available to protect your interests.
  • Best possible outcome: Our goal is to achieve the most favourable outcome for your case, whether that’s modifying the AVO conditions or dismissing it entirely.

Varying or Challenging an Existing AVO (ADVO or APVO):

Circumstances can change. If you believe existing apprehended violence orders (ADVO or APVO) no longer reflect the current situation, our AVO lawyers in Sydney can help. We will assist you in navigating the process of modifying or revoking the order. Our experienced legal team of senior lawyers will carefully and meticulously assess the situation and case against you, gather materials and present the best case to the court on your behalf.

Meet Our Sydney AVO Lawyers

At Repute Law, we specialise exclusively in criminal and traffic law and are recognised as go-to experts in the field. Boasting a team of senior avo lawyers, we are a powerhouse of knowledge and experience who will guide you through the complex criminal justice system.

Michael Gleeson

Principal & Founder

Michael Gleeson, founder of Repute Law, is a renowned criminal lawyer with over 30 years of experience. He has handled thousands of cases, from minor offences to major crimes, passionately defending clients' rights and providing expert legal representation across Australia.

Tania Russo

Senior Lawyer & Practice Manager

Tania Russo, admitted as a Solicitor in 2001, is a dedicated lawyer known for providing compassionate, unbiased legal representation. With a background in assisting death row inmates and a strong commitment to fairness, she champions inclusion and respect while achieving optimal outcomes for her clients.

Client Testimonials

Call Us Now

or complete the form below.