Top Domestic Violence Law Firm in Johannesburg

Providing urgent legal assistance with protection orders and domestic violence matters across South Africa.

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Otrebski Domestic Violence Attorneys

What Is the Meaning of Domestic Violence in South African Law?

Domestic violence in South Africa is regulated by the Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998, recently strengthened by amendments in 2021. It covers a wide range of abusive conduct, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, economic, and controlling behaviours. Importantly, it is not restricted to married couples—it extends to anyone in a domestic relationship, such as life partners, dating partners, ex-spouses, parents, children, or anyone sharing a household.

The purpose of the law is to ensure the dignity, safety, and well-being of victims are protected and to provide legal mechanisms to hold abusers accountable. At Otrebski Attorneys, we use this legislation to its fullest extent to secure urgent and lasting protection for our clients.

Our highly experienced domestic violence lawyers understand the devastating impact domestic violence can have on your life, your children, and your future. Our women-led team of family and criminal law experts provides urgent, compassionate, and effective legal support to protect your safety and restore your peace of mind. Whether you need an immediate protection order, legal advice on your rights, or representation in court, we are here to act swiftly and decisively in your best interests.

Why Legal Help Matters in Domestic Violence Cases

Victims of domestic violence often feel trapped, intimidated, and unsure of their options.

Taking legal steps can be overwhelming, especially when your abuser may still be living with you or controlling your finances. This is where professional legal assistance makes all the difference. Our attorneys help you gather evidence, prepare affidavits, apply for interim protection orders, and represent you in court to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are safeguarded. We also assist with follow-up legal issues that frequently arise in domestic violence cases, such as divorce, child custody, child maintenance, and criminal charges.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Types of Domestic Violence Covered by South African Law

At Otrebski Attorneys, we ensure no form of abuse is overlooked and that your application for protection is comprehensive and compelling. South African law recognises many forms of domestic violence, and we are committed to helping you address each of them:

Physical abuse, such as assault, hitting, or strangling.
Sexual abuse, including sexual assault, marital rape, or coercion.
Emotional and psychological abuse, such as threats, humiliation, or gaslighting.
Economic abuse, for example, controlling finances or denying access to shared resources.
Stalking and harassment, including following, monitoring, or repeated unwanted contact.
Coercive control, such as isolating a partner, restricting movement, or controlling daily life.

DOMESTIC VIoLENCE LEGAL HELP

How Otrebski Attorneys Assist in Domestic Violence Matters

We provide a full range of legal services to assist victims of domestic violence, combining urgency with compassion to ensure your case is handled sensitively while prioritising your immediate safety and long-term security:

Interim & Final Protection Orders

Assisting clients in applying for urgent interim orders and securing final protection orders to ensure safety.

Opposing Bail for Abusers

Representing victims when abusers are arrested to prevent their release on bail and protect safety.

Family Law Matters

Handling related divorce, child custody, and child maintenance disputes arising from domestic violence.

Harassment Orders

Advising and applying for harassment orders when abuse occurs outside a domestic relationship.

Criminal Representation

Supporting victims involved in criminal proceedings where domestic violence leads to charges.

Ongoing Legal & Emotional Support

Providing continuous guidance and support throughout the legal process to protect clients’ rights and well-being.

When Should You Contact A Domestic Violence Lawyer?

You should contact a domestic violence lawyer as soon as you experience or fear abuse, whether physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. A lawyer can help you apply for an urgent protection order, represent you in court, and ensure your rights and safety are protected. It is also important to seek legal help if you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, as the consequences can be severe.

How to Apply for a Protection Order for Domestic Violence in South Africa

A protection order is the most effective legal remedy for victims of domestic violence. You can apply at your local magistrate’s court by submitting an affidavit detailing the abuse. If your case is urgent, the court can issue an interim protection order the same day—without informing the abuser first. This order offers immediate relief until a final hearing takes place. While it is possible to apply without legal representation, many applications fail because victims do not provide enough evidence or legal detail. With our criminal attorneys, your case is carefully prepared with affidavits, police reports, medical records, and witness statements to ensure your protection order is granted and enforceable.

How much is a domestic violence protection order in South Africa?

In South Africa, applying for a domestic violence protection order at a magistrate’s court is free of charge. There are no court fees for lodging an application, and the police are obligated to assist you in completing the necessary forms and affidavits. If you choose to hire a private attorney to assist with your application, legal fees will apply. The cost of legal representation varies depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience. Typically, fees range from R1,500 to R1,800 per hour. While legal representation is not mandatory, it can be highly beneficial in complex or contested cases, helping ensure the application is thorough, supported with evidence, and effectively presented in court.

What Happens If My Abuser Violates the Order?

Breaching a protection order is a criminal offence in South Africa. If the abuser violates any condition, the police can arrest them immediately, and they may face fines, imprisonment, or other legal penalties. Repeated breaches can lead to harsher sentences and strengthen your case for additional protection measures. Victims should report any violations promptly to ensure their ongoing safety and to hold the offender fully accountable under the law. Legal guidance can help document breaches and take further action if necessary.

Our Client Process

Starting Your Legal Journey With Otrebski Domestic Violence Attorneys

We understand that domestic violence is traumatic and urgent, and that victims need swift, effective legal protection. That’s why we follow a clear, compassionate, and structured process to guide you through every step, ensuring your safety and legal rights are fully safeguarded under South African law.

Fill in your details below to contact us for professional guidance, expert advice, and effective solutions in obtaining, enforcing, or defending protection orders.

Consult With A Top Domestic Violence Law Firm In Johannesburg

Our step-by-step approach ensures that you feel supported from your first consultation to the final resolution.

Otrebski Attorneys combines extensive experience, in-depth legal knowledge, and years of proven practice.