Domestic & Family Violence Lawyers Melbourne

Dealing with domestic or family violence issues can be one of the most stressful experiences in life. Having the right lawyer by your side provides reassurance, clarity, and protection at a time when you need it most. Our team of experienced domestic and family violence lawyers in Melbourne is committed to guiding clients through these sensitive matters with professionalism and care.

We understand that every case is different. Whether you are applying for protection, defending against allegations, or need clear advice about your rights, our lawyers work closely with you to build the best possible legal strategy.

Domestic Violence Lawyers

Domestic violence cases often involve urgent situations, including the need for or defence against Intervention Orders (IVOs). Our lawyers act quickly to protect your rights and provide the support you need to move forward. With in-depth knowledge of the Victorian legal system, we offer clear advice, strong representation, and compassionate guidance throughout the process.

Family Violence Lawyers

Family violence matters can have lasting impacts on both individuals and families. Our team takes the time to listen, understand your circumstances, and explain your options in simple terms. We represent clients seeking protection as well as those facing allegations, always with the goal of achieving fair and just outcomes. Our approach combines legal expertise with empathy, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

We Fight for You

At DFV Lawyers we are committed in achieving optimal results with strategic planning, positioning and courtroom advocacy to all our clients.

Meet Principal Lawyer Carmella Acciarito

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All you need to know about Intervention Orders

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Why Choose Our Lawyers?

We provide comprehensive assistance in:

We know how difficult these cases can be, and we are committed to handling each matter with discretion and respect. With years of experience in family and criminal law, our lawyers bring both expertise and understanding to your case, helping you feel confident and supported throughout.

Comprehensive Support in Domestic and Family Violence Matters

Urgent Applications

Preparing and lodging urgent applications for Protection Orders, including requests for temporary protection.

Order Variations

Drafting and submitting Applications to Vary, to add, amend, or revoke existing orders.

Subpoena Requests

Requesting subpoenas from relevant authorities, such as Victoria Police, medical providers, and educational institutions.

Order Applications

Preparing and filing standard Applications for Protection Orders.

Negotiations

Engaging in negotiations with the other party and/or police prosecutors in relation to Protection Order proceedings.

Court Representation

Representing you in Court at all stages — including temporary protection order hearings, procedural mentions, and final trials.

Defending Orders

Providing legal defence against Applications for Protection Orders.

Affidavit Drafting

Drafting supporting affidavits for you and any witnesses to strengthen your case.

Breach Defence

Defending allegations of breaches of domestic violence orders.

A Smarter, Flexible Way to Fund Your Family Law Matter

We understand that when you’re navigating a separation or relationship property matter, the financial strain can sometimes stand in the way of getting the legal support you need. That’s why we’ve partnered with JustFund – a dedicated provider of flexible funding solutions for family law legal fees.

Through this partnership, eligible clients can access a flexible line of credit to cover legal fees and expenses related to separation or relationship property proceedings. You don’t have to repay the loan until you reach a settlement, which we hope reduces the stress associated with paying costs upfront. Contact us for more information, or visit JustFund.com.au.

Common questions we get asked at Domestic Family Violence Lawyers

A domestic violence lawyer helps protect your safety and your legal rights. This can include applying for intervention orders, representing you in court, assisting with parenting and family law matters, and guiding you through the entire process. They make sure you understand your options and what steps to take next.

No, you don’t legally need a lawyer, but having one can make the process much easier and less stressful. A lawyer can prepare your application properly, represent you in court, and help ensure the order provides the strongest protection possible.

In urgent situations, the court can issue an interim intervention order very quickly, sometimes on the same day. This provides immediate protection while your matter is being finalised.

Evidence can include text messages, emails, photos, medical records, police reports, or witness statements. Even if you don’t have strong evidence yet, a lawyer can still help you build your case and guide you on what to collect moving forward.

Yes, significantly. Courts prioritise the safety of children, so family violence can impact parenting arrangements, visitation, and custody decisions. Getting proper legal advice is important to understand how your situation may affect your rights and your child’s wellbeing.

You should get legal advice as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you respond, challenge the order if appropriate, and represent you in court. It’s important not to ignore the order, as breaching it can lead to serious consequences.

No. Domestic violence includes emotional abuse, financial control, threats, coercion, and controlling behaviour. The law recognises many forms of abuse—not just physical harm.

Yes. Conversations with your lawyer are confidential, so you can speak openly about your situation without worrying about your information being shared.

Yes. A lawyer can help you take the right legal steps to leave safely, including applying for urgent protection orders and guiding you through your options. They can also point you toward support services if needed.

Costs can vary depending on your situation. In some cases, you may be eligible for Legal Aid or free legal assistance, particularly if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Absolutely. You can speak to a lawyer just to understand your options and plan your next steps. You don’t need to commit to legal action straight away.

If you’re in immediate danger, call 000 immediately. Your safety always comes first.

Google Reviews

EXCELLENT
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Based on 36 reviews
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Elise King profile picture
Elise King
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Carmella is an absolute powerhouse. Fierce, fearless and incredibly passionate about advocating for women experiencing domestic violence. During one of the scariest times of my life, she made me feel comfortable, confident and, most importantly, strong. Her determination, knowledge and genuine passion for what she does is undeniable. She doesn’t just represent you — she fights for you. I will forever be grateful to have had such a strong, compassionate and fearless woman in my corner. Carmella is the kind of advocate you want beside you when you need someone to stand up and fight. Her presentation and appearance matched her work practice with strong attention to detail, she was immaculate, professional & stylish. I would highly recommend her to anyone going through domestic or family violence.
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Coops profile picture
Coops
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If I could give Carmella 10 starts I would. I’m so grateful, I can’t thank Carmella enough, and I am so greatful to have been represented by her. She passionate and clearly truely careing about this field and what she does. She was thorough, precise, her knowledge of the legislation is exceptional, I feel she’s the one to go for if you need someone to stand up for you and what is right. She listened & considered what was best all round. In a time that was so awful for me she bought a beautiful guidance, and a calm confident energy, I felt safe and knew I could trust her, I will be forever grateful. I cannot recommend Carmella highly enough. Thank you for your humanity, care and passion for what you do Carmella. 🙏
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Kalpana Mundhe profile picture
Kalpana Mundhe
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Carmella is Power house ! What an amazing acumen and expertise, attention to detail, and confidence in the courtroom were truly impressive. Right from first contact till the results just in 3 days !!!! Am just jaw dropped ! If you're looking for a criminal lawyer who is experienced, compassionate, and will fight tirelessly for your rights, this is the person to trust. My words are not enough 🙏🙏🙏
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Angharad Thomas profile picture
Angharad Thomas
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DFV Lawyers saved me. When I felt trapped, confused and isolated by a situation I didn’t understand, Carmella guided me with compassion, clarity and exceptional skill. She took the time to explain each step, outline my options, and navigate the court process on my behalf. While the police and system failed me, Carmella never did — her expertise, dedication and calm presence made an unbearable time manageable. I am deeply grateful for her support and cannot recommend her highly enough.
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Belinda Gilpin profile picture
Belinda Gilpin
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I cannot thank Carmella enough for her support, professionalism, and dedication. After my perpetrator used systems abuse to lock me out of all legal representation, Carmella did not hesitate in assuring me that she will be helping and providing me with representation in court. From the moment she took on my case, she listened carefully, understood the complexities of my situation, and made me feel heard and supported during an extremely difficult time. She went above and beyond, taking the time to explain everything clearly and advocating strongly on my behalf. Her compassion, knowledge, and commitment gave me confidence when I was feeling overwhelmed scared and anxious. I highly recommend Carmella to anyone seeking a lawyer who is not only highly skilled, but is also compassionate, and professional.
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Mary Zafiris profile picture
Mary Zafiris
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I cannot recommend Carmella strongly enough. From the moment I first made contact, Carmella instantly set up our first session that same day and was so incredibly supportive throughout the entire IVO application process with regular check-ins and trauma-informed emotional support. Carmella is extremely efficient and thorough, working tirelessly on evenings and over long weekends to meet challenging court deadlines. Carmella had such a strong presence in the courtroom and is incredibly resilient, enabling me to relax and know that I could trust her to handle everything. Thank you Carmella for all of your continual support during one of the toughest times of my life, I will always be so grateful to you.
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Joel Deveson profile picture
Joel Deveson
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DFV Lawyers expertise and precision documentation is beyond perfection. Representation by Carmella is by far the best anyone can obtain. Securing a "cross application" in difficult circumstances, it was Carmella's fastidiousness & bull ring energy that achieved a winning result by careful strategy, preparation, planning and court room advocacy. Carmella's knowledge of the laws, legislations and section's they fall under are exceptional and even the Magistrate could not cope. My personal experience is evidence towards not looking further for dominating representation.
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Tom profile picture
Tom
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Carmella did a thorough and highly professional job when handling our case, and pretty much pulled off the impossible. Her flexibility with her time was also greatly appreciated as a time-poor parent.
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zak pettenuzzo profile picture
zak pettenuzzo
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I had a really positive experience with Carmella at DFV Lawyers. From the very beginning, she was incredibly supportive, professional, and genuinely caring. She took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I felt comfortable and reassured throughout the entire process. Carmella’s dedication and attention to detail really stood out, and I always felt like I was in capable hands. Her guidance made a difficult situation much easier to navigate, and I’m truly grateful for her help. I highly recommend DFV Lawyers, especially Carmella, for anyone needing compassionate and reliable legal support.