VALS’ Family Violence Practice offers legal advice, representation and related non-legal support to adults and children and young people of all genders who are impacted by family violence.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people impacted by family violence face significant barriers in accessing justice and support. This is particularly true for Aboriginal women who are often misidentified by the legal system as the person using violence, rather than the person experiencing it. This misidentification causes serious harm, and can lead to criminalisation and child removal. In response to this, our team will have a strong focus on misidentification matters.
Establishing this dedicated practice is part of our commitment to provide self-determined, high quality, holistic legal assistance, when and where our community need it.
Who we can support
Adults
VALS’ Family Violence Practice can assist adults of all genders who require legal advice, representation and related non-legal support in matters involving family violence. This can include:
- If you have been misidentified as the person using violence.
- If you are the ‘Affected Person’ (the one requiring protection) on an Family Violence Intervention Order (FVIO) or an application for one has been made against you.
- If you are facing family violence related criminal charges
Children and Young People
VALS’ Family Violence Practice can assist children and young people living at home or in out-of-home care who require legal advice, representation and related non-legal support in relation to family violence.
Ways we can support
Non-Legal Support
Our Family Violence Practice team include non-legal support roles who provide culturally responsive support to clients by promoting safety, wellbeing, and access to services.
They work alongside lawyers to address clients’ non-legal and cultural needs, coordinate referrals and practical supports and provide emotional assistance. In doing this they help strengthen connections between clients, community, and support services through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Legal Support
Our Family Violence Practice team includes specialist lawyers who have an understanding of the complexities of family violence matters. Providing culturally safe legal assistance for all clients.
Get in touch with the team
If you need help with a family violence matter, get in touch for a yarn with our Family Violence Practice to see how we may be able to support you.
Toll-free call: 1800 064 865
Email: [email protected]
Contact us
Please feel free to contact us using the form provided and if your matter is urgent call 1800 064 865.