Intervention Orders (IVOs) are legal instruments designed to protect individuals from family violence or harassment.
While these orders are effective for a set period, there are instances where extending an IVO becomes necessary. Let’s explore the reasons to extend IVO.
1. Ongoing Threats or Harassment
Why It’s Important
One of the most common reasons to extend an IVO is that the person against whom the IVO was initially issued continues to pose a threat or engage in harassment.
The ongoing risk could be in the form of verbal threats, stalking, or any other form of intimidation.
Key Takeaway: An ongoing threat is a red flag that the initial IVO duration is insufficient for your safety.
2. Breach of Initial Order
Why It’s Important
If the respondent breaches the initial IVO by contacting or approaching you, it indicates that the existing order is not serving its purpose.
Extending the IVO can add more stringent conditions, making it harder for the respondent to violate the terms.
Key Takeaway: A breach of the initial order indicates that an extension with stricter conditions is needed.
3. Changes in Personal Circumstances
Why It’s Important
Life changes, and so do circumstances. You might move to a new location, change jobs, or have children, all of which could necessitate extending the IVO.
The original order might not cover these new circumstances, making an extension vital for continued protection.
Key Takeaway: Personal life changes can create new vulnerabilities, making an IVO extension essential.
4. Incomplete Legal Proceedings
Why It’s Important
Extending the IVO ensures that you remain protected throughout the legal process if there are ongoing legal proceedings related to the family violence case, such as divorce or custody battles.
Key Takeaway: Legal proceedings can be lengthy, and an extended IVO ensures you’re protected.
5. Psychological Peace of Mind
Why It’s Important
One of the reasons to extend IVO is psychological peace of mind. The mere existence of an IVO can offer a psychological buffer against fear and anxiety.
Knowing that the law is on your side can provide a sense of security, making it easier to go about your daily life without constant worry.
Key Takeaway: The peace of mind that comes with an extended IVO is invaluable for your mental well-being.
How to Extend an IVO
The Process
Extending an IVO is not as daunting as it may seem. Generally, you’ll need to apply with the court that issued the original order.
This usually involves filling out specific forms and providing evidence to support the need for an extension.
A hearing will then be scheduled, where both parties can present their case.
Required Documentation
You may need to provide evidence such as text messages, emails, or witness statements that prove the ongoing risk or breach of the initial order.
The more concrete evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Key Takeaway: Extending an IVO is a legal process that requires preparation and evidence. Make sure to consult with a legal advisor to guide you through the steps.
Let Legal Professionals Guide You
There are many reasons to extend IVO. Extending an IVO is not just a legal formality; it’s a crucial step in ensuring your ongoing safety and peace of mind.
Extending an IVO is often a necessary action, whether it’s due to a constant threat, a breach of the initial order, changes in personal circumstances, incomplete legal proceedings, or simply for psychological peace.
One of the most critical aspects of this process is seeking qualified legal advice. IVO lawyers can guide you through the intricacies of the law, help you gather the necessary evidence, and represent your interests in court.
Their expertise can make the difference between a successful extension and a denied application.
Director of Melbourne Family Lawyers, Hayder manages the practice and oversees the running of all of the files in the practice. Hayder has an astute eye for case strategy and running particularly complex matters in the family law system.
