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How to get an intervention order

This section is for affected family members (the person making the application).

The flowchart below outlines each stage of the family violence intervention order process. Select a step in the process to find out more about it.

Note: This is a general summary. It might be slightly different for you as each situation is different.

This flowchart outlines each stage of the family violence intervention order process. Select a step in the process to find out more about it. You decide to ask for an order. Go to your local Magistrates' Court and ask to se the registrar. It can help to have someone there to support you.The registrar gives you an intervention order application form to fill in.Making the application: You have an interview with the registrar. Tell them as much as you can. The registrar can also tell you about legal and support services that can help you.The registrar types up your application and a summons to go to court. This will have the date to come back to court for the first hearing. Check the details are correct, sign it and get a copy.If you have been hurt or your property damaged, the registrar can make a warrant to arrest the violent family member.If you do not feel safe you can get protection straight away through an interim order. Ask the registrar.Your family member is served: The registrar faxes the forms to the police. The police will serve your family member with your application and any other court forms. They will also arrest them if there is a warrant.Court hearing: you need to go to court on the date of the summons. What happens next depends on whether the respondent agrees.

More information

Family violence orders to protect children

Going to court for an intervention order hearing

When an intervention order is made

Related publications

Family violence intervention order publications

How we can help

Call Legal Help for free information over the phone about the law and how we can help you with your legal problem. You can speak to a legal information officer in English or ask for an interpreter.

Phone (03) 9269 0120 or 1800 677 402 (country callers), Monday to Friday from 8.45 am to 5.15 pm.

Our other free legal services include:

  • advice at our offices and other locations across Victoria
  • lawyers who are on ‘duty’ at the Magistrates’ Courts who can give you advice on the day of your hearing.

For some matters, we can provide you with a lawyer to help you run your case.

To find out more about any of our legal services see What we do.

Who else can help?

If you are in danger, call the police on ‘000’.

Your local community legal centre (CLC) can give you legal information and advice. Most CLC services are free. See the Community Law website for more information and CLC contact details.

See Getting help for details of organisations that can help with family violence, family dispute resolution and other support services.