First Consultation Free
Domestic Violence Legal Representation in Queensland
Compassionate, Strategic Help for Victims on the Gold Coast & Southport
First Consultation Free
If you or your children are experiencing domestic violence, or you fear for your safety, you deserve legal support you can trust. At MD Solicitor (Michael Dwyer), we provide specialist legal representation in domestic violence matters in Queensland, particularly focusing on the Gold Coast / Southport region.
We understand the legal system can be confusing and intimidating—especially when you’re under stress. Our goal is to guide you, protect your rights, and help you get the outcomes you need to move forward safely.
What Is “Domestic Violence” & Why Legal Help Is Important
Domestic violence (also called family violence or domestic and family violence) can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, economic, or coercive control. The law recognises that victims may need urgent protection.
In Queensland you may seek a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) (often referred to as a protection order or restraining order) through the Magistrates Court.
Having an experienced solicitor on your side is critical.
We can help you:
Understand your rights and options
Prepare and file the protection order application
Represent you in court hearings
Advise on how to enforce or vary orders
Intervene when you are served with an order against you
Help you deal with related criminal, family law or child safety matters
When violence is ongoing or escalating, time is of the essence—getting legal advice early can make a real difference.
Why MD Solicitor for Domestic Violence Matters
Local to Gold Coast / Southport — we know the courts, registry practices, and local support services
Tailored & empathetic approach — we understand the sensitivities and pressures you are under
Comprehensive service — from paperwork, court representation, to liaison with police, child-safety, and support agencies
Responsive & accessible — we prioritise urgent matters and walk with you through each step
Strong advocacy — pushing for your safety and rights, not just ticking boxes
Services We Offer in Domestic Violence Cases (Gold Coast / Southport)
Here’s a (non-exhaustive) list of domestic violence–related services that Michael Dwyer can assist with:
Applying for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)
Draft the application, prepare affidavits, submit to court, liaise with court registry
Urgent / interim protection orders
When immediate protection is needed, arrange for temporary orders pending a full hearing
Responding to an order made against you (as respondent)
Challenge, negotiate, or vary conditions; represent your interests in court
Variation or discharge of existing orders
When circumstances change (e.g. relocation, safety, reconciliation), assist with modifying or removing orders
Enforcing breach or contravention of orders
Advise and act when the respondent breaches an order (e.g. police, court follow-up)
Representation at court hearings
Appear at first mention, preliminary hearings, contested hearings, or further court proceedings
Liaising with police, child protection or other agencies
Communicate with QPS, child safety, or support agencies to coordinate safety and legal strategy
Advice on separating, property, or parenting issues
Where domestic violence overlaps with family law (separation, children, property) we coordinate advice or referrals
Assistance with cross-jurisdictional orders
If there’s an order from another state (interstate) we help with registration or enforcement in QLD
Safety planning and referrals to support services
While we are not a frontline support service, we coordinate referrals to shelters, counselling, DV support agencies
Advice on coercive control, economic abuse and non-physical violence
As expanded legal concepts in domestic violence, we can advise on how those may affect protection order strategy (especially post “Hannah’s Law”)
What Happens When You Apply for a DV Protection Order in QLD?
Here’s a typical path
You decide to apply or ask police to apply — you may complete the Form DV01 yourself, via a support worker, or with a solicitor’s help.
Interim / urgent order may be granted at first hearing if risk is high (even before respondent sees it).
Court date / mention — both sides appear; if unopposed, the order may be made. If contested, evidence and cross-examination will follow.
Final or extended order — the court may make a longer-term order with conditions (no contact, exile zones, etc.).
Ongoing enforcement or variation — if conditions are breached or your situation changes, you can ask the court to act or vary the order.
1.
You Decide to Apply or Ask Police to Apply
You may complete the Form DV01 yourself, via a support worker, or with a solicitor’s help.
2.
Interim / Urgent Order
May be granted at first hearing if risk is high (even before respondent sees it).
3.
Court Date / Mention
Both sides appear; if unopposed, the order may be made. If contested, evidence and cross-examination will follow.
4.
Final or Extended Order
The court may make a longer-term order with conditions (no contact, exile zones, etc.).
5.
Ongoing Enforcement or Variation
If conditions are breached or your situation changes, you can ask the court to act or vary the order.
A Domestic & Family Violence duty lawyer is sometimes available at QLD courts to give advice and limited assistance on the court day. However, that service is often constrained—private representation ensures consistency, preparation, and advocacy beyond that single day.
Queensland also has Specialist Domestic & Family Violence Courts (where available) and practices to assist in DFV matters.
Recent Legal Reforms & What They Mean
Queensland recently passed “Hannah’s Law,” making coercive control a criminal offence — this expands the ways courts can recognise non-physical abuse in domestic violence proceedings.
The state is strengthening transparency, protections, and enforcement measures for victims of family violence.
Because the legal landscape is evolving, having a solicitor who stays up to date is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to pay upfront?
We discuss options with you. In some cases, Legal Aid or duty lawyer services may cover parts of DV matters, depending on eligibility.
How long does it take for an order?
If urgent, a temporary order may be granted on the first court day. A full hearing may take weeks to months, depending on scheduling.
Can I get legal representation the same day?
In emergencies, we prioritise urgent matters. If the court offers a duty lawyer at your court, they may help that day, but private representation provides continuity.
What is the difference between DV and family law?
DV laws protect you from abuse through orders. Family law deals with parenting, property, and child arrangements. Because they often overlap, our service works to integrate both where relevant.
What if there’s already an order from another state?
We can help register or enforce interstate orders in Queensland so your protection continues.
Contact Us – Take the First Step to Safety & Legal Support
If you are located in Gold Coast, Southport or surrounding areas, get in touch urgently. Early legal advice can make a significant difference in your safety and outcomes.
Free initial consultation for DV enquiries.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll stand with you, fight for your rights, and help you take control again.
