Domestic Violence Lawyers Canberra ACT

General information only — not legal advice. Penalties and section numbers change; speak with us about your specific circumstances. Call (02) 6210 1075.

Why Choose Andrew Byrnes Law Group for a Domestic Violence Charge

Domestic violence matters require legal strategy across two parallel proceedings — the criminal charge and the Family Violence Order — with awareness of how each affects custody, employment, security clearances, and visa status. Our Canberra lawyers provide:

• Urgent advice before any police interview, including same-day attendance where required
• Strategic coordination between the criminal defence and any concurrent FVO proceedings
• Bail applications addressing accommodation, contact conditions, and child-related arrangements
• Defence preparation including review of body-worn camera footage, 000 audio, and medical evidence
• Sentencing advocacy that engages with rehabilitation, behaviour change programs, and restorative justice where appropriate
• Coordination with family lawyers on parenting matters where children are affected

Serving Canberra and Surrounding Regions

Andrew Byrnes Law Group represents clients facing domestic violence and family violence charges across Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Yass, and surrounding regions. Contact (02) 6210 1075 for confidential advice.

Important — not legal advice

This page provides general information about ACT criminal law. It is not legal advice and must not be relied on as such. Laws, penalties, and section numbers change, and how the law applies depends on your specific circumstances. For advice tailored to your situation, contact Andrew Byrnes Law Group on (02) 6210 1075 or via our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can police charge someone with domestic violence in the ACT without the victim's consent?

Yes. Under the Family Violence Act 2016 (ACT), police have power to charge a person with family violence offences and apply for a Family Violence Order independently of the victim's wishes. This reflects a policy that prosecution decisions are made by the state, not the victim. Even where a victim does not want to proceed, police and prosecutors can and regularly do continue with charges. Early legal advice is essential to understanding your position and responding appropriately.

What is a Family Violence Order (FVO) and how does it differ from the criminal charges I may also face?

An FVO is a civil protection order issued under the Family Violence Act 2016 (ACT) that restricts a respondent's conduct — for example, prohibiting contact with the protected person or requiring them to vacate the family home. An FVO can exist alongside, or entirely independently of, criminal charges. Critically, breaching an FVO without reasonable excuse is a separate criminal offence that potentially carries up to two years' imprisonment. A lawyer can explain the conditions of any FVO against you and the consequences of an alleged breach.

How will a domestic violence charge affect my children and any family law proceedings?

A domestic violence charge — and particularly any FVO — can have significant consequences for parenting arrangements. Family law courts under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) are required to consider any history of family violence when making parenting orders. It is important that your criminal lawyer and any family lawyer you engage coordinate their approach so your position is protected across both sets of proceedings. Andrew Byrnes Law Group can advise on how these intersecting legal processes interact.

What if the allegations against me are false or exaggerated?

False or exaggerated allegations do occur. Addressing them requires a thorough, evidence-based investigation before your matter reaches court. This includes reviewing body-worn camera footage from police, analysing communications and phone records, obtaining independent witness statements, and identifying inconsistencies in the complainant's account. A carefully prepared defence built on the evidence can expose weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Contact Andrew Byrnes Law Group for a free initial consultation to discuss your options.

What is a cross-application in family violence proceedings and should I consider making one?

A cross-application is where the respondent to an FVO applies for their own FVO against the original applicant. Under the Family Violence Act 2016 (ACT), courts can hear cross-applications in the same proceeding. Courts scrutinise cross-applications carefully to ensure they are not being used to undermine the protection sought by the original applicant, and an improperly pursued cross-application can be counterproductive to your overall position. Legal advice before making a cross-application is strongly recommended.