Kate was referred to Caxton’s family law program after receiving duty lawyer assistance at the Brisbane DFV Court. Although she was the person needing protection, police had incorrectly identified her as the respondent. Kate’s partner was coercively controlling, and emotionally and physically abusive. Over three months, Caxton advocated for police to withdraw the application.
Due to police inaction, the matter was adjourned four times—a delay which would discourage anyone. However, through coordinated support from our social worker, who provided ongoing safety planning and counselling, and our lawyer, who challenged the incident-based policing response that led to Kate’s misidentification, the application was ultimately withdrawn.
Privacy Notice: The names, identifying details and photographs used throughout this material have been changed or substituted with stock imagery to protect the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. The scenarios, outcomes and insights presented are based on real engagements but have been modified to ensure anonymity. Any resemblance to specific individuals or businesses is unintentional.
