The Monaro-Hume Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service is part of the New South Wales Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Program. It is funded by Legal Aid NSW
WDVCAS is a service for women and children who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence, to obtain effective legal protection through applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) from NSW local courts. Monaro Hume WDVCAS provide face to face support at Court in Bombala, Cooma, Queanbeyan, Yass, Goulburn, Crookwell, Moss Vale and Young.
Our role is to provide our clients with information about the court process, provide support throughout the court process in a safe environment and refer the client to appropriate services such as counselling, accommodation services, etc. Ideally, we will contact our clients before the first court date to introduce our service, explain the court processes, discuss any variations and ensure they know where to find us on the day. We attempt to alleviate the stress for the person in need of protection and gain and ADVO to increase their safety.
When a client attends court, the WDVCAS worker will be there to support them in the safe room, inform them of the legal process and discuss any further requirements for example, referrals to other services. WDVCAS works closely with The Police DVO (Domestic Violence Officer) who will speak with the client in the safe room and ensure that the AVO suits their situation. WDVCAS also provides courtesy follow up contact with client’s post court to ensure they have complete understanding of their court outcomes, safety planning and what to do if the abuse continues. If a matter is going to ‘hearing’ we will let them know how to access a Police Prosecutor Clinic which will explain what happens on the day of a hearing.
We have an Aboriginal Focus worker who is available to support women in culturally appropriate manner. If you would like to speak with our Aboriginal worker please just ask.