Top tips from a Senior Family Law Advocate on how to deal with your Child Custody matter in the Polokwane Children’s Court

 

Family law legal matters can be very stressful. This is so whether you live in Polokwane or any other city in South Africa. Especially so if you have no idea how the legal processes work. It is one thing to know that you are entitled to child support, but it is a totally different matter to know the law and procedure on how to claim child support. Luckily in child maintenance matters, the maintenance court is there to assist you in completing the application form. However, many times that is not enough. Especially so if the other parent has a lawyer and knows how to present the case for his or her client.

This article, however, deals with some top tips in care and contact or custody matters in the Children’s Court in Polokwane. It would explain the processes involved and advise on how to be best prepared for your matter. This advice is applicable whether you live in Polokwane or any other city in South Africa.

What to do before visiting the Polokwane Children’s Court

Before you approach the Children’s Court in Polokwane, first try to resolve the issues with the other parent. Therefore, if you want more contact with your child and the other parent is refusing, try to resolve the matter first with that parent. If that does not work, try mediation. The mediator can be anyone, from a trusted mutual friend, priest, or other religious leaders, or a professional like an attorney, psychologist, or the office of the Family Advocate. Polokwane has many professionals that can assist you in this regard. If resolving the matter by yourselves is not possible, or mediation fails, then we suggest you approach the Polokwane Children’s Court for assistance.

TIP: Focus on getting someone neutral to assist in mediating your matter. Organisations like FAMSA and FAMAC can be of assistance. Google them.

Approaching the Polokwane Children’s Court

The Polokwane Children’s Court should be approached if it is the closest Children’s Court to you. You need to verify with the Polokwane Children’s Court that you fall under their area of jurisdiction. If not, they would direct you to which Children’s Court is applicable to you.

Once you arrive at the Polokwane Children’s Court, they will provide you with a form headed “Bringing Matter to Court in Terms of Section 53 Children’s Act, 2005 (Act no. 38 of 2005) Regulation Relating to Children’s Court and International Child Abduction, 2008 [Regulation 6]. This form is also called Form 2.

In this form, you will provide all your particulars and that of the child or children and the other parent. The sections in the form are as follows:

  • PART A: PARTICULARS OF CHILD(REN)
  • PART B: PARTICULARS OF *CHILD WHO IS AFFECTED BY OR INVOLVED IN THE MATTER/PERSON *ACTING IN THE INTEREST OF THE CHILD/*ON BEHALF OF THE CHILD WHO CANNOT ACT IN HIS/HER OWN NAME/ *MEMBER OF A GROUP OF CLASS OF CHILDREN/*IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST (SECTION 53(2)
  • PART C: PARTICULARS OF PERSONS HAVING AN INTEREST IN THE MATTER
  • PART D: PARTICULARS OF MATTER

In part D, the following is stated which you need to provide in the form:

  • Nature of matter brought to Court: (Please give full details of the matter e.g., registration/amendment of parenting plans, removal of child to safe care, children in need of care and protection, placement in youth care centers, adoption etc.
  • Documents: Are there any documents relating to the matter? (If so please attach)

Once you have completed the form and attached the relevant documents to it, you must take it to a commissioner of Oaths to have it commissioned. It does not have to be in Polokwane.

TIP: Draft a separate affidavit explaining your case. Outline some background information and reasons why the Court should give you what you request. Attach it to Form 2.

Processing your Application at the Polokwane Children’s Court

Once you complete the Form A and submit it to the Clerk of the Polokwane Children’s Court, they will process it and allocate it a case number or reference number. The Clerk of the Court would then allocate a date to the matter and advise the parties accordingly when the court date is. Please note that some courts follow a different process for processing the application and informing the parties of the court date. Please enquire from the Court when making the application what process they follow.

TIP: Obtain the contact details of the Court for you to contact them to obtain the Court date or other information. Ask for their contact number and email address.

Appearing in the Polokwane Children’s Court

When notified of the Court date, both you and the other parent should attend. If you are making use of a lawyer (Advocate or Attorney), inform them timeously of the date. Depending on the Court, you may first see the Clerk or go directly to the Magistrate. The Children’s Court would do its best to try to resolve the matter. If the parents cannot come to an agreement, the Children’s Court may postpone the matter for either of the following:

  • Get a social worker involved in the matter;
  • Appoint a legal representative for the minor child;
  • Implement interim care and contact arrangements;
  • Having the parties attempt to agree on a parenting plan;
  •  

In serious matters, the Court may remove the minor child from both parents and place the child in foster care. The powers of the Children’s Court are extensive. It will, however, focus on what is in the child’s best interests.

TIP: Be as vocal as possible. Do not expect the Court to be understanding of your case or be on your side. It is your duty to explain your case and provide the Court with all the relevant information they require for them to make a fair decision.

Finalising the matter in the Polokwane Children’s Court

Once the Polokwane Children’s Court has enough information to make a final decision, it will do so. Depending on the facts of the matter, that could either be making a Parenting Plan, an Order of the Court or a final care and contact Order. The Court may even make further interim orders, where the parties are to return to Court after a few months, or a year later.

TIP: Do not agree to something just because the social worker, a lawyer, or the Court suggest it. You need to be happy with what is decided.

The above Polokwane Children’s Court Application tips should apply to the following provinces and cities:

Eastern Cape:

Alice, Butterworth, East London, Graaff-Reinet, Grahamstown, King William’s Town, Mthatha

Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, Uitenhage, Zwelitsha

Free State:

Bethlehem. Bloemfontein, Jagersfontein, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Parys, Phuthaditjhaba, Sasolburg, Virginia, Welkom

Gauteng:

Benoni, Boksburg, Brakpan, Carletonville, Germiston, Johannesburg, Krugersdorp, Pretoria, Randburg, Randfontein, Roodepoort, Soweto, Springs, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging

KwaZulu-Natal:

Durban, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Ulundi, Umlazi

Limpopo:

Giyani, Lebowakgomo, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Sibasa, Thabazimbi

Mpumalanga:

Emalahleni, Nelspruit, Secunda, North West, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng, Mmabatho, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Northern Cape, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth

Western Cape:

Bellville, Polokwane, Constantia, George, Hopefield, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Simon’s Town, Stellenbosch, Swellendam, Worcester

Posted on by Telelaw

Top tips from a Senior Family Law Advocate on how to deal with your Child Custody matter in the Polokwane Children’s Court

 

Family law legal matters can be very stressful. This is so whether you live in Polokwane or any other city in South Africa. Especially so if you have no idea how the legal processes work. It is one thing to know that you are entitled to child support, but it is a totally different matter to know the law and procedure on how to claim child support. Luckily in child maintenance matters, the maintenance court is there to assist you in completing the application form. However, many times that is not enough. Especially so if the other parent has a lawyer and knows how to present the case for his or her client.

This article, however, deals with some top tips in care and contact or custody matters in the Children’s Court in Polokwane. It would explain the processes involved and advise on how to be best prepared for your matter. This advice is applicable whether you live in Polokwane or any other city in South Africa.

What to do before visiting the Polokwane Children’s Court

Before you approach the Children’s Court in Polokwane, first try to resolve the issues with the other parent. Therefore, if you want more contact with your child and the other parent is refusing, try to resolve the matter first with that parent. If that does not work, try mediation. The mediator can be anyone, from a trusted mutual friend, priest, or other religious leaders, or a professional like an attorney, psychologist, or the office of the Family Advocate. Polokwane has many professionals that can assist you in this regard. If resolving the matter by yourselves is not possible, or mediation fails, then we suggest you approach the Polokwane Children’s Court for assistance.

TIP: Focus on getting someone neutral to assist in mediating your matter. Organisations like FAMSA and FAMAC can be of assistance. Google them.

Approaching the Polokwane Children’s Court

The Polokwane Children’s Court should be approached if it is the closest Children’s Court to you. You need to verify with the Polokwane Children’s Court that you fall under their area of jurisdiction. If not, they would direct you to which Children’s Court is applicable to you.

Once you arrive at the Polokwane Children’s Court, they will provide you with a form headed “Bringing Matter to Court in Terms of Section 53 Children’s Act, 2005 (Act no. 38 of 2005) Regulation Relating to Children’s Court and International Child Abduction, 2008 [Regulation 6]. This form is also called Form 2.

In this form, you will provide all your particulars and that of the child or children and the other parent. The sections in the form are as follows:

  • PART A: PARTICULARS OF CHILD(REN)
  • PART B: PARTICULARS OF *CHILD WHO IS AFFECTED BY OR INVOLVED IN THE MATTER/PERSON *ACTING IN THE INTEREST OF THE CHILD/*ON BEHALF OF THE CHILD WHO CANNOT ACT IN HIS/HER OWN NAME/ *MEMBER OF A GROUP OF CLASS OF CHILDREN/*IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST (SECTION 53(2)
  • PART C: PARTICULARS OF PERSONS HAVING AN INTEREST IN THE MATTER
  • PART D: PARTICULARS OF MATTER

In part D, the following is stated which you need to provide in the form:

  • Nature of matter brought to Court: (Please give full details of the matter e.g., registration/amendment of parenting plans, removal of child to safe care, children in need of care and protection, placement in youth care centers, adoption etc.
  • Documents: Are there any documents relating to the matter? (If so please attach)

Once you have completed the form and attached the relevant documents to it, you must take it to a commissioner of Oaths to have it commissioned. It does not have to be in Polokwane.

TIP: Draft a separate affidavit explaining your case. Outline some background information and reasons why the Court should give you what you request. Attach it to Form 2.

Processing your Application at the Polokwane Children’s Court

Once you complete the Form A and submit it to the Clerk of the Polokwane Children’s Court, they will process it and allocate it a case number or reference number. The Clerk of the Court would then allocate a date to the matter and advise the parties accordingly when the court date is. Please note that some courts follow a different process for processing the application and informing the parties of the court date. Please enquire from the Court when making the application what process they follow.

TIP: Obtain the contact details of the Court for you to contact them to obtain the Court date or other information. Ask for their contact number and email address.

Appearing in the Polokwane Children’s Court

When notified of the Court date, both you and the other parent should attend. If you are making use of a lawyer (Advocate or Attorney), inform them timeously of the date. Depending on the Court, you may first see the Clerk or go directly to the Magistrate. The Children’s Court would do its best to try to resolve the matter. If the parents cannot come to an agreement, the Children’s Court may postpone the matter for either of the following:

  • Get a social worker involved in the matter;
  • Appoint a legal representative for the minor child;
  • Implement interim care and contact arrangements;
  • Having the parties attempt to agree on a parenting plan;
  •  

In serious matters, the Court may remove the minor child from both parents and place the child in foster care. The powers of the Children’s Court are extensive. It will, however, focus on what is in the child’s best interests.

TIP: Be as vocal as possible. Do not expect the Court to be understanding of your case or be on your side. It is your duty to explain your case and provide the Court with all the relevant information they require for them to make a fair decision.

Finalising the matter in the Polokwane Children’s Court

Once the Polokwane Children’s Court has enough information to make a final decision, it will do so. Depending on the facts of the matter, that could either be making a Parenting Plan, an Order of the Court or a final care and contact Order. The Court may even make further interim orders, where the parties are to return to Court after a few months, or a year later.

TIP: Do not agree to something just because the social worker, a lawyer, or the Court suggest it. You need to be happy with what is decided.

The above Polokwane Children’s Court Application tips should apply to the following provinces and cities:

Eastern Cape:

Alice, Butterworth, East London, Graaff-Reinet, Grahamstown, King William’s Town, Mthatha

Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, Uitenhage, Zwelitsha

Free State:

Bethlehem. Bloemfontein, Jagersfontein, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Parys, Phuthaditjhaba, Sasolburg, Virginia, Welkom

Gauteng:

Benoni, Boksburg, Brakpan, Carletonville, Germiston, Johannesburg, Krugersdorp, Pretoria, Randburg, Randfontein, Roodepoort, Soweto, Springs, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging

KwaZulu-Natal:

Durban, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Ulundi, Umlazi

Limpopo:

Giyani, Lebowakgomo, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Sibasa, Thabazimbi

Mpumalanga:

Emalahleni, Nelspruit, Secunda, North West, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng, Mmabatho, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Northern Cape, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth

Western Cape:

Bellville, Polokwane, Constantia, George, Hopefield, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Simon’s Town, Stellenbosch, Swellendam, Worcester

Related Post

What is the best advice regarding relocation with my minor child from South Africa?  – A Simplified Guide to Choosing the Right Country to Relocate To

Relocating to a new country is a significant life decision that comes with a multitude of considerations. Whether you’re seeking new career opportunities, a change in lifestyle, or simply exploring the world, choosing the right country is paramount to a successful and fulfilling experience. Especially so if you are taking your minor child with you. In this simplified guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting a country for relocation.

Define Your Priorities:

Before delving into specific countries, take the time to define your priorities and what you seek in a new home. Consider factors such as career opportunities, lifestyle preferences, climate, language, and cultural aspects. Understanding your priorities will serve as a compass in the decision-making process.

Employment Opportunities:

Career prospects are often a driving force behind relocation. Research industries and job markets in potential countries. Look for regions with a strong demand for your skills and expertise. Online job portals, industry reports, and professional networks can provide valuable insights into employment opportunities.

Cost of Living:

Assess the cost of living in potential countries. Consider expenses such as housing, transportation, healthcare, and education if you have a family. Websites and cost-of-living calculators can help you compare and estimate your potential expenses in different countries.

Quality of Life:

Beyond career prospects, evaluate the overall quality of life in potential destinations. Factors like healthcare, education, safety, and cultural amenities contribute significantly to your well-being. Look for countries with a balanced lifestyle that aligns with your preferences and values.

Cultural Fit:

Cultural compatibility is crucial for a successful relocation experience. Research the local culture, customs, and social norms. Consider whether you are comfortable with the lifestyle, values, and traditions of the country. Assessing cultural fit ensures a smoother transition and integration into the local community.

Language Considerations:

Language can be a significant factor in your relocation decision. Evaluate whether you are proficient in the official language(s) of the country or if there are opportunities to learn. Language proficiency not only aids in day-to-day communication but also enhances your overall experience.

Legal and Visa Requirements:

Research the legal and visa requirements of potential countries. Understand the immigration policies, work permits, and residency options available. Ensure that you comply with the necessary regulations and that the process aligns with your timeline and goals.

Climate and Geography:

Climate and geography play a vital role in your day-to-day life. Consider whether you prefer a tropical, temperate, or arid climate. Evaluate the geography of the region, including proximity to mountains, beaches, or urban centers. Climate can significantly impact your comfort and well-being.

Education System:

If you have children or plan to pursue further education, consider the quality of the education system in potential countries. Research schools, universities, and available academic resources. A strong education system can be a decisive factor for families considering relocation.

Healthcare System:

Assess the healthcare system of potential countries. Consider the accessibility, quality, and cost of healthcare services. Understanding the healthcare infrastructure ensures that you and your family have adequate support in case of medical needs.

Social and Networking Opportunities:

Building a social network is crucial for adapting to a new environment. Look for countries with vibrant expatriate communities, social clubs, and networking events. Connecting with locals and fellow expatriates can ease the transition and enrich your overall experience.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right country to relocate to is a multifaceted process that requires careful consideration of various factors. By defining your priorities, researching employment opportunities, assessing the cost of living, and evaluating cultural compatibility, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Remember, thorough research and planning are key to a successful and rewarding relocation experience.

Posted on by Telelaw

[video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://www.ourlawyer.co.za/wp-content/uploads/Relocation.mp4"][/video]

Frequently asked questions regarding relocation and consent when it comes to minor children

Relocation – Are you planning on relocating to another country or moving to a different province within South Africa with your minor child? Are you concerned about the issue of consent from the other parent? Below are some frequently asked, and related questions on the topic. We would encourage you to post and answer some of the questions, or just leave a comment. advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorce Parents often decide to relocate with their minor children. However, they do not always understand the legal requirements and implications involved. For example, can they just leave the country with the minor child or do they require the other parents’ consent? Furthermore, if consent is required and refused; what are the remedies available to that parent? With regard to the issue of moving from one province to another, unless a court order stipulates otherwise, consent is not required. However, the relocation from one province to another could have an effect on existing parental responsibilities and rights. Under these circumstances, a variation of the court order would be warranted. There are therefore also other issues involved when it comes to relocation. For example, what contact would the other parent who remains in South Africa have to the minor children after relocation? The aforementioned questions and a range of other related questions may be posed and answered below. Feel free to post your question should this blog post not have answered it.

Can I move from South Africa to the United Kingdom with my child without the father’s permission?

If the father has parental responsibilities and rights of guardianship, his consent is required for the relocation to the United Kingdom. For example, if the father and the mother were married, then under those circumstances unless an order of court determines otherwise, the father’s consent is required. If the father was not married to the mother, but in a long term relationship when the child was born, and involved in the child’s life after birth, then his consent under the circumstances would also be required.

What do I do if the father refuses to consent to relocate to Germany?

advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorceIf a parent refuses to provide the necessary consent for relocation to another country, in this case, Germany, then the Court must be approached. Basically, you would ask the court to dispense with the requirement of the father’s consent. The court would determine the case based on what is best for the minor children involved.

What type of care and contact would the other parent exercise if I relocate to Saudi Arabia?

In this digital age, there is no reason why a parent cannot have regular contact to his or her child if they live in different countries. Usually, contact would take place via Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other digital means. Email and other messaging services are also effective. When the children returns for holidays or the parent visits them overseas, then contact should be reasonable. For example, a few days with the non-custodial parent.

May I relocate with my child to Canada or the United States?

advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorceYou may relocate with your minor child to Canada, the United States, or to any other country if you have the father’s consent. However, consent is not always required if the father does not have guardianship rights. If you were married to the father or he was involved in the child’s life, by visiting and paying maintenance, then his consent would be required.

My child does not have a passport. Do I require the father’s consent to obtain one?

In terms of the Children’s Act, if a father has parental responsibilities and rights of Guardianship, his consent is required for the minor child’s application for a passport. If the father’s name is on the birth certificate, more than likely the Department of Home Affairs would insist on having his consent.

Can a mother move a child away from the father?

Under normal circumstances, a mother cannot move a child away from the father. However, if it is in the child’s best interest, it will be allowed. It is best to obtain a court order dealing with the parties’ parental responsibilities and rights under the circumstances. Alternatively, a social worker or childcare expert should have advised the mother that that would be in the child’s best interest.

When can a child legally decide which parent to live with?

In South Africa, a child is no longer under the guardianship of a parent when he or she turns 18 (eighteen) years old. Therefore when the child turns 18 (eighteen) years old, he or she can decide where he wants to stay, and with whom he wants to stay. The same applies in the case of the relocation. The father’s consent would not be required should the minor child decide to relocate to another country with a mother. The opposite also applies.

Can I get a passport for my child without the father’s consent?

advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorceIn terms of South African law, both guardians’ consent is required for a child applying for a passport. Therefore, if the father is a holder of guardianship, his consent is required. The Department of Home Affairs may insist on the father being present at their offices to give consent.

Can I move with my child without the father’s permission?

If you wish to move to a different province or to a different city within South Africa; technically you do not require the father’s permission unless there is a Court Order stating that you require his consent.

Can I change my child’s last name without the father’s consent?

The Department of Home Affairs would require both parents’ consent. If the child has the father’s surname, you would definitely require the father’s consent. If the mother remarried and wants the child to have the surname of the step-father, and the child currently has a mother’s maiden surname, then in those circumstances the Department of Home Affairs might decide not to persist with the father’s consent if he cannot be found.

Can a mother take a child out of the country without the father’s permission?

This depends on whether or not the father has guardianship rights over the minor child. If the father has guardianship rights over the minor child then, he would require the mother’s consent. Furthermore, the Department of Home Affairs would require the father’s consent before the child may leave the Republic of South Africa if the father has guardianship rights.

Can I take my child overseas without the child’s father’s permission?

If the father has rights of guardianship over the child then you require his permission to take the child out of the Republic of South Africa. This applies whether or not you intend to relocate to another country or you would like to take the child away on a holiday.

Can a mother move a child away from the father in South Africa?

advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorceA parent (in this case the mother) has to always act in the child’s best interest. However, under certain circumstances, the mother may have to move to a different province or to another country. Under those circumstances, the court would look at what is best for the minor child. Should the child remain in the province or in the country with the other parent who cannot care for him or her? Obviously not, unless the situation warrants it. Those are the factors that the court would have to look at.

May grandparents take the minor child abroad?

Yes, a grandparent may take a minor child abroad. However, the grandparent would require the consent of both the minor child’s parents if they are both guardians.

Can I get my child a passport without the father’s consent?

In terms of the Children’s Act, both guardians are required to give consent for the minor child’s application for a passport. Therefore, if the father has guardianship rights over the minor child, then his consent is required.

Can a mother terminate a father’s parental rights when she moves overseas?

advice-child-maintenance-child-custody-divorceA mother cannot terminate a father’s parental rights and responsibilities. Even if she moves overseas, she can’t. Only a court of law can do that. However, it is possible under certain circumstances that the father does not have parental responsibilities and rights. In those cases, he can acquire parental responsibilities and rights if he gets involved in the child’s life.   For business legal services, visit Private Legal.    
Posted on by Telelaw

Domestic violence case law South Africa

In all the years of dealing with the legalities of domestic violent situations, we have to find women and children to be the most vulnerable. It is by far, no coincidence that South Africa peaks the highest when it comes to domestic violence. Sadly. As we are aware of this, we encourage women to come forward and reassert their voice. Not only do we strive to educate women about their legal rights and position in society; but we aim to deliver professional legal services. Fortunately, we have made our website easily accessible when it comes to obtaining free, expert legal advice in a family legal matters. See our home page on: I am in a physically abusive relationship. Help from Abuse – you may find this scenario helpful. Find out how to make a domestic violence application in which we explain how to go about obtaining protection orders and interdicts. Do you know personally know of a child that may be in an unstable home with an abusive parent? According to the law, this is an utter violation of a child’s right to a safe environment. Our family legal expert clearly explains this as follows: Section 18 of the children’s act 38 of 38 2005 states the following: (1) A person may have either full or specific parental responsibilities or rights in respect of a child. (2) The parental responsibilities and rights that a person may have in respect of a Child, include the responsibility and the right- (a) To care for the child; (b) To maintain contact with the child; (c) To act as guardian of the child; and (d) To contribute to the maintenance of the child (3) Subject to subsections (4) and (5), a parent or other person who acts as guardian of a child must (a) Administer and safeguard the child’s property and property interests; (b) Assist or represent the child in administrative, contractual and other legal Matters; or (c) Give or refuse any consent required by law in respect of the child, including- (I) consent to the child marriage (ii) Consent to the child adoption; (iii) Consent to the child departure or removal from the Republic; (iv) Consent to the child application for a passport; and (v) Consent to the alienation or encumbrance of any immovable property of the child. (4) Whenever more than one person has guardianship of a child, each one of them is competent, subject to subsection (5), any other law or any order of a competent court to the contrary, to exercise independently and without the consent of the other any right or responsibility arising from such guardianship. For more out more about The Law Regarding Children – The Children’s Act 38 of 2005, don’t hesitate to call our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment today!

Domestic Violence Act

The Domestic Violence Act 116 or 1198, was introduced to afford woman the right to protect themselves by which they can enforce their rights legally if they fear for their life. The Act highlights that domestic violence is a serious offense and should be taken serious. Victims of domestic violence, woman and children that is, can now stand up for themselves by virtue of a protection order or restraining order. Perpetrators can also face imprisonment as the Act recognizes domestic violence is a serious crime. Arrange for an online appointment for a professional legal consultation today and have the legal expert explain to you in context how your legal rights can be executed. Connect with us today!

The process – defending Protection Order in South Africa

First of all, a Protection Order or harassment order serves as a direct order from court which should be adhered to. Any violation of a court’s instruction can be legally detrimental. The court order granted, will only be suitable to the person suffering any form of violence or harassment. A Protection Order is mainly applicable in cases of domestic violence in which the perpetrator lives with the victim. In a case of harassment, the perpetrator is not living with the victim. This is where a harassment order comes in. The idea of the Order is to ensure that the violence/abuse do not recur and put a stop into it by restraining the offender doing the abuse or committing the violent acts. Below are brief steps outlined on how to go about obtaining a Protection Order at your local police station:
  • An affidavit must be made and an application form must be filled out. The application form can also be obtained online .
  • If you have a witness or confidante that knows about your abuse case, then you may want to take that person with you when obtaining a protection order.
  • The Court will then assess the application and will determine whether an Order is required.
  • Once the Court approves, only then will the Order have effect on the offender. Should the offender fail to adhere to the Order, the offender will be arrested.
Visit our domestic violence application page and see more on obtaining a Protection Order. Do you fear for your life? Make an online appointment with us today and have your legal rights asserted!  
Posted on by Telelaw

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