Should I consent to a DVO 'Without Admission'?

If you are served with a DVO application, you have three options:

1. Consent to the Order (admitting the acts).
2. Contest the Order (go to trial).
3. Consent Without Admission (The middle ground).

What Does “Without Admission” Mean?

It means you tell the Court: “I deny that I did the things alleged in the application, but I agree to follow the order to save time and money.”

Why Do It?

• No Criminal Record: A DVO itself is a civil order. Consenting to it does not give you a criminal record (unless you later breach it).
• Cost Effective: Contesting a DVO at a trial can cost $5,000–$15,000 in legal fees. Consenting costs almost nothing.
• Avoids Findings of Fact: If you go to trial and lose, the Magistrate might make specific findings (“I find that Mr X punched Ms Y”). These findings can be used against you in Family Court parenting disputes. “Consent Without Admission” avoids this.

The Downside / Risks

• Weapons License: If a Final Order is made (even by consent), your weapons license will be revoked for 5 years.¹
• Breach Risk: You are now subject to strict conditions. If you accidentally breach them (e.g., text your ex when you shouldn’t), you face criminal charges.

Related Topics

• Breaching a DVO
• DVO Application Process
• Domestic Violence Practice Area

Strategic Advice

Before consenting, you must ensure the conditions are workable. We negotiate the terms (e.g., ensuring “No Contact” has an exception for “arranging time with children”).

Served with an order? Contact us before your court date. Call (07) 5532 8777.