We are a specialist Criminal Law firm with decades of experience and a great reputation. We protect your rights.

A person may be charged with a criminal offence that derives from family or domestic violence. In this context, violence is not limited to only physical harm however, it can be identified as being emotional, financial or psychological control. If you are charged with an offence involving someone you were or currently in a relationship with or are the parent/guardian of, the penalties you could be facing are serious.

Under the Criminal Law Consolidation Act 1935 (SA), if you are charged with choking, suffocation or strangulation in a domestic setting, the maximum penalty is 7 years imprisonment. For other offences, such as ‘assault,’ there is a factor of aggravation if the offending occurred in a family or domestic setting. The maximum penalty is 3 years imprisonment.

If there is an active Intervention Order between yourself and another party, you may be charged with additional offending. If you breach a condition of the Order, the maximum penalty will be 3 years imprisonment for a basic offence or imprisonment for 5 years for an aggravated offence. If this is not a first contravention of the order or the alleged act constitutes physical violence, or a threat thereof, the maximum penalty for a basic offence increases to 7 years imprisonment or 10 years for an aggravated offence.

The solicitors at Woods & Co Lawyers may also assist you in defending an Intervention Order. An Application will be listed with the Court on the Originating Application to have the matter brought before the Court if the Order is contested.

Click here to go to our intervention order page

At Woods & Co Lawyers, we can assist you with any avenue.

Domestic or family violence extends far beyond physical harm. Under South Australian law, domestic violence may include:

• Physical assault or threats
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Controlling or coercive behaviour
• Financial control
• Intimidation or harassment

If an allegation involves a person you are in a relationship with, have children with, or have lived with, the matter is treated with additional seriousness under SA legislation.

Our domestic violence lawyers have extensive experience representing clients charged with offences such as:

• Choking, suffocation, or strangulation (maximum 7 years imprisonment)

Considered one of the most serious domestic offences under SA law.

• Assault in a domestic or family setting

Aggravated assault carries a maximum penalty of 3 years imprisonment.

• Threats, stalking, and harassment

Even without physical contact, these offences can lead to significant legal consequences.

• Property damage or reckless endangerment

Charges can be escalated if they occur within a domestic relationship.

We work to ensure your side of the story is heard, evidence is properly presented, and your rights are protected at every stage.

An Intervention Order can significantly impact your life — affecting how you live, work, travel, and communicate. Woods & Co Lawyers assist with both defending and responding to Intervention Orders.

We assist with:

• Understanding the conditions of the IO
• Responding to an Interim or Final Intervention Order
• Contesting or varying an Intervention Order
• Representing you at all court appearances

If you breach an Intervention Order, penalties are severe.

Breaching an IO is a criminal offence. Maximum penalties include:

• 3 years imprisonment for a basic breach
• 5 years imprisonment for an aggravated breach
• 7 years imprisonment for repeated or violent breaches
• 10 years imprisonment for aggravated repeated breaches involving violence or threats

If you have been charged with contravening an Intervention Order, you need urgent legal advice. (please note, these may change slightly due to laws being updated/changed, giving you a guide)

Woods & Co Lawyers take a strategic, supportive, and non-judgmental approach. We assist clients by:

• Explaining your charges and potential outcomes
• Reviewing evidence and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution case
• Preparing your defence and obtaining supporting material
• Representing you in negotiations or at trial
• Ensuring your legal rights are protected throughout the process

We act quickly to reduce stress, minimise harm, and work towards the best possible outcome.

If you’re facing domestic violence allegations, an Intervention Order, or charges stemming from a domestic situation, get legal advice immediately.

Woods & Co Lawyers provide confidential, experienced, and effective representation.

Call us today to speak with a domestic violence lawyer in Adelaide.

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