Experienced Family Law Firm Based in Perth.
Our advice is designed to bring your matter to the best possible outcome in the shortest amount of time.
About Dimond Family Lawyers
The leaders in Family Law matters in Perth.
Helping to keep you
safe.; secure.; informed.;
If you have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence, you have the option to seek help by obtaining a family violence restraining order against the person who committed violence towards you.
Family violence is a form of abuse that encompasses not only physical and sexual assault but also coercive and controlling behavior. Examples of such behavior include stalking, repeated insults, property damage, withholding money unreasonably, preventing contact with friends or family, threatening or sharing intimate images, and exposing children to such actions. This issue affects individuals and families across all demographics in Australia, and it poses a serious threat to their health and well-being.
No one should be expected to endure family violence in any relationship. Thankfully, there are resources and organizations available to help support those affected. In the past, efforts to address family violence have largely focused on protecting women and children, who are statistically more likely to experience it. However, it’s important to recognize that men can also be victims of family violence.
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Before Separating.
Our Legal Practice Director, Erryn Dimond, talks about aspects involving separation.
Understanding Family Violence
A Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO) can be either interim or final.
Victims of family violence have the option of making an application for an interim FVRO for the purpose of securing interim protection from the perpetrator. The application is made on an “ex parte” basis. This means that the other party does not attend the initial hearing.
The application is usually heard by a Magistrate in the Magistrates Court. It is possible to make an application for an FVRO that extends to the protection of children, as well as the applicant. If successful, the Magistrate will issue an interim FVRO.
It is important to remember that the FVRO is not in force until it has been served.
When an interim FVRO is in force, there are options available to resolve the order/application on a final basis, without proceeding to trial.
These include:
- inviting a party to withdraw the application;
- reaching agreement upon a unilateral or mutual undertaking: an undertaking is not an order, and is therefore not enforceable by the Police. If breached, it can be used as strong evidence to secure a further interim FVRO.
- reaching agreement upon a conduct agreement order: a conduct agreement order is a “without admission” order, which means that there is no admission by the Respondent to any events or circumstances that have occurred. In other words, you agree to be bound by the order, but you do not have to admit perpetrating family violence. A conduct agreement order has the same enforceability as a final family violence restraining order. If breached, criminal proceedings can flow from the breach.
An undertaking or conduct agreement order will be in force for an agreed defined period, and will be conditional upon the FVRO application being withdrawn
A Final Restraining Order (FVRO) is a court order that prohibits a person from engaging in certain behaviours towards another person, such as contacting or harassing them, approaching their residence, workplace, or other specified places, or committing any act of violence against them.
If the matter proceeds to a trial, then both of you will be required to attend court to provide evidence (including under cross-examination) from yourself and chosen witnesses for the purpose of establishing:
- That the other party has committed family violence against you and is likely to commit family violence against you again in the future; or
- That you have a reasonable apprehension or fear that the other party will commit family violence against you.
As is the case with an interim FVRO, once a final FVRO is issued, it is a criminal offence for the person against whom the order is made (the respondent) to breach the terms of the order. If the respondent breaches the order, they may be arrested and charged with a criminal offence, which can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
It is important to note that a FVRO is a serious legal matter that can have significant consequences for both the applicant and the respondent. If you are considering applying for a FVRO or have been served with a FVRO, it is recommended that you speak with our team.
You can speak with us in the knowledge you are safe and the information supplied is in the strictest of confidence. We can help you with effective strategies to manage the progress of your matter to ensure the safety of you and your children, whilst also finalising the dispute between you and your ex-spouse.
If you want to make a change speak to one of our experienced and friendly team today
Why Choose Dimond Family Lawyers?
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. In Perth, many people suffer from domestic violence, which can have a significant impact on their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. If you are facing domestic violence, it is crucial to seek help from a reputable and experienced family lawyer.
There are several reasons why people should choose Dimond Family Lawyers to help them with their family & domestic violence issues. Firstly, we have a team of experienced and skilled lawyers who specialise in family law, including domestic violence. Our lawyers have years of experience in dealing with domestic violence cases and have helped numerous clients achieve favourable outcomes. We have a deep understanding of the legal system and can guide you through the legal process with compassion and professionalism.
Secondly, we offer personalised legal services tailored to meet your specific needs. We take the time to listen, understand your situation, and develop a customised legal strategy to help you achieve your goals. We are committed to providing high-quality legal services that meet your unique needs and circumstances.
Thirdly, our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring your safety. We understand the importance of safety in domestic violence cases and will work tirelessly to help prevent clients from being in harm’s way. We will assist you in obtaining a restraining order or violence restraining order to ensure your safety and security.
Finally, we provide comprehensive legal services, including representation in court, negotiations, and mediation. We have a proven track record of success in representing clients in court and achieving successful outcomes. We will fight for your rights and protect your interests throughout the legal process.
Meet Our Team
Erryn Dimond - BPHE, GRAD DIP, JD, GDLP
Legal Practice Director
Erryn is an experienced family law practitioner, having worked in the Perth family law sector since early 2009.
Throughout her career, Erryn has gathered extensive experience and knowledge of complex financial matters, complex parenting matters, including litigation involving family violence (including restraining orders).
Whilst working in a family law paralegal role for 4 years under the supervision of an experienced senior legal practitioner, Erryn completed a Juris Doctor (Law) at Murdoch University in 2012, and post-graduate Practical Legal Training through the Australian National University in 2013.
Erryn is a member of the Family Law Practitioners Association of Western Australia, the Law Society of Western Australia, and the Law Council of Australia (Family Law Section).
Erryn is known for her empathetic and strategic approach to family law matters, as well as her candid and professional communication style.
Erryn has practical experience in a broad range of Family Law related matters and events including Procedural Hearings, Interim Arguments, Trials, Conciliation and Case Assessment Conferences, Child Dispute Conferences, external Mediation-Style Conferences, Legal Aid Dispute Resolution, and Family Court appeals.
Outside of work hours, Erryn has a keen interest in food and wine. She also enjoys playing tennis, travelling, and spending time with her family and friends.
Leanne Galloway - LLB (Hons)
Associate
Leanne is a UK and WA qualified solicitor, having been admitted to practice in each jurisdiction in 2007 and 2018, respectively. She has significant post qualification experience in family law, criminal law and personal injury advice and litigation.
With specific experience working with government agencies addressing issues relating to family violence and child safety, Leanne brings a breath of family law experience, coupled with a practical and informed approach.
Most recently in Western Australia, Leanne has practiced solely in the area of family law, including the provision of advice in the areas of parenting disputes, relocation cases, family violence restraining orders, surrogacy, complex property matters, bankruptcy, and other areas of family law.
Leanne has a passion for family law and justice and is defined by her compassionate and informed approach to the provision of practical and tailored advice to her clients in all areas of family law.
Outside of the office, Leanne has worked as a volunteer through her local community football club, as well as having a strong interest in the practice and coaching of martial arts, having achieved a brown belt.
Tenielle Fernando - LLB, BA, GDLP
Associate
Tenielle completed a double degree in Law and Arts (History) at Edith Cowin University, following which she completed her Practical Legal Training with a prominent criminal barrister.
In 2016, Tenielle secured a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and was admitted to practice in May 2017.
During her legal career to date, Tenielle has gained experience at a generalist firm in regional Great Southern with a focus on family law, criminal law, restraining orders, property, wills, and estates.
During 2020, Tenielle expanded her experience through a boutique family law firm in Perth with autonomous responsibility for managing family law files from commencement to conclusion, including written letters of advice and correspondence, consent order applications, attending procedural hearings, interim hearings, Conciliation Conferences, Case Assessment Conferences, and mediation-based events.
Tenielle’s experience in restraining orders includes interim negotiations through to representation at trial (on behalf of applicants and respondents).
Tenielle has a compassionate and professional approach to family law with a focus on implementing creative solutions to resolve matters without unnecessary litigation.
Feedback from previous clients is consistently positive, with particular notice of Tenielle’s practical, informed and candid approach to liaison with clients and provision of advice.
When not in the office, Tenielle enjoys cooking, gardening (the rarer the plant or vegetable the better!), travelling, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Chantell Perry - Dip. LEG.SER
Legal Secretary/Legal Assistant
Chantell brings a vast array of legal experience to our team, previously working in the areas of personal injuries and workers compensation claims, motor vehicle and industrial accident claims, conveyancing, companies work, wills & estates, general and commercial litigation, consumer and insurance litigation, civil litigation, customs matters, employment law and criminal law since 1996.
Chantell has worked primarily in family law since 2005. Consequently, she has a broad and thorough knowledge of family law processes and procedures.
At Dimond Family Lawyers, Chantell undertakes tasks as a senior legal secretary and a legal assistant, including liaison with clients, law firms, Court representatives and related parties, as well as drafting Court documents, correspondence, and producing spreadsheet analysis from disclosure provided.
With an experienced and practical approach to her role, Chantell is well known at Dimond Family Lawyers for her positive and resilient attitude.
Chantell has completed the Legal Assistants Training Course at the Law Society of Western Australia and also holds a Diploma of Legal Services through the College of Law, Education and Training.
When not at work, Chantell enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, socialising with friends, camping, beach activities and the general outdoors.
Renee Cowley
Legal Secretary/Legal Assistant
Renee has worked primarily in a family law environment for over 23 years, with extensive knowledge of Family Court procedures, including additional experience in Wills and Estates, including Probate and Letters of Administration applications.
Renee obtained her Diploma of Legal Studies in 2017, which has supported her progress into roles that require the skills of a legal assistant.
At Dimond Family Lawyers, Renee works in a hybrid role, completing senior secretarial duties, but also (as a legal assistant) producing initial draft court documents, taking instructions from clients, and producing analysis of disclosure.
Renee is client-focused with an open and informed approach to working with clients, staff, and colleagues.
She genuinely enjoys assisting our clients move towards a new chapter in their life.Outside of work hours, Renee enjoys spending time with her family and friends, long-distance running, being outdoors in the summer months, camping, and socialising.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Family domestic violence refers to any form of abuse or violence that occurs within a family or intimate partner relationship. This can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial abuse.
Signs of family domestic violence can include physical injuries, emotional distress, isolation from friends and family, controlling behaviors, and threats of harm.
If you are a victim of family domestic violence in Perth, WA, you should seek immediate help from local authorities or support services. This can include contacting the police, a domestic violence hotline, or a domestic violence support organization.
The consequences of family domestic violence in Perth, WA can include physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial hardship, and long-term health problems. In some cases, domestic violence can also result in death.
You can help a family member or friend who is experiencing domestic violence in Perth, WA by offering support, listening without judgement, and connecting them with local resources such as a domestic violence hotline or support organization.
Legal protections for victims of family domestic violence in Perth, WA can include restraining orders, and criminal charges against the abuser.
Department for Child Protection and Family Support
Domestic Violence Helplines
Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline
Telephone (08) 9223 1188 or Free call 1800 007 339
Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline
Telephone (08) 9223 1199 or Free call 1800 000 599
Lifeline – Crisis Support, Suicide Prevention
Telephone 13 11 14
In an emergency – if someone is in immediate danger – call the police on 000 now.
The long-term effects of family domestic violence in Perth, WA can include PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
Risk factors for family domestic violence in Perth, WA can include a history of abuse, substance abuse, financial stress, and mental health issues.
Preventing family domestic violence in Perth, WA requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education and awareness-raising, community engagement, support services for victims, and legal interventions to hold abusers accountable.
