Legal and court support for family violence

If you have experienced domestic or family violence, Safe Steps can connect you with legal support, including support while you are in court.  

Our Specialist Family Violence Practitioners can provide general information on legal matters, such as Intervention Orders, Family law, and Child Protection matters, however, cannot provide legal advice.  

Family Advocacy and Support Services  

We can also talk to you about what you can expect if you are needing to attend court. 

Families involved in family law proceedings who are affected by family violence can access the Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS). FASS provides legal and social support at the Family Law Registry in Melbourne and Dandenong Federal Circuit and Family Court. 

Safe Steps FASS Workers can help with:   

• Family violence risk assessments and safety planning 
• Advocacy and emotional support  
• Referral to other legal and social supports 

To find out more, call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 to speak with a family violence specialist or email safesteps@safesteps.org.au  

Free Legal Advice 

You can access free legal advice by contacting the Legal Help service at Victoria Legal Aid (VLA).  

Contact VLA Legal Help by phone – 1300 792 387 

Or access via Legal Help Chat between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday 

FASS was established by Victoria Legal Aid with funding from the Australian Government.