About family violence
Family violence can include different types of controlling or harmful behaviour. Sometimes it can be hard to know if someone is using family violence against you.
Read more in this section about what family violence is and how to find out if you or someone you know are experiencing it.
Court orders for family violence
If someone is using family violence against you, there are different types of court orders that can help protect you and your whānau.
Read more in this section to find out what types of court orders are available for family violence and how to apply for, change, or cancel these court orders through the Family Court.
Responding to a court order
You will be told by the Family Court if someone has applied for a Protection Order against you. If a Protection Order is made, you must follow the rules of the order. If you break the rules of the Protection Order, you may be arrested and charged in the criminal court.
If you want your views heard or to defend yourself against the application, you must file a response to the Family Court.
Read more in this section to find out when and how to respond to a Protection Order, and what you can and can’t do when a Protection Order has been made against you.
Services for family violence
Specialist services are available to help if you’re experiencing family violence, worried about your own harmful behaviour, or worried about someone else. There are a range of services with free helplines that provide support, information, and referrals to services in your area.
You can also access free safety programmes for you and your children to help understand the family violence you have experienced and develop your own safety strategy. Most people who have applied for a Protection Order, or have a Protection Order in place, can attend these safety programmes.
Read more in this section to find support services to help you and your whānau.