Court Appearances on the Central Coast

Apprehended Violence Orders

Attending court—whether as part of a family law dispute, civil matter, or estate-related issue—can be a stressful and unfamiliar experience. Understanding the legal process and your responsibilities can help you prepare and navigate your court appearance more confidently.

Linda Emery is an experienced solicitor in court appearances, including drink driving matters, drug offences, assault matters and Apprehended Violence Orders.

As your expert court appearance solicitor, Linda is available for Central Coast courts.

What is an AVO?

An AVO is made by the Court to protect people by ordering defendants not to do specific things. The defendant must obey the orders by the Court.

The AVO will last for the period of time as set out in the Orders. AVO’s can be changed or cancelled by applying to the Court. They take effect immediately if the defendant is present at the court hearing. If the defendant is not at Court when the AVO is made, then it will not take effect until the police give a copy of the AVO to the defendant.

If the defendant fails to obey the Orders, the defendant can be charged with the offence of breaching an AVO. If found guilty, this is a criminal offence that has serious penalties.

If you need legal advice on how to obtain, defend, vary, revoke or appeal an AVO, or any charges relating to a breach, you need to contact Linda Emery at Linda Emery & Associates. 

Traffic Lawyer in Gosford, Central Coast

You can lose your driver’s licence in various ways. Some offences include: 

• Speeding
• Negligent driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Ignoring traffic light signals
• Reckless driving 
• Using a mobile phone whilst driving.

A Traffic Offenders Program is available and participants are encouraged to complete individual projects. Each project aims to help change community knowledge, attitudes and behaviour around Drink Driving and the Responsible Serving and Consumption of Alcohol. Linda can assist and support you at your court appearance. 

When Might You Need to Attend Court?

Court proceedings involve strict protocols, deadlines, and documentation requirements. Failing to meet these expectations can impact your case, which is why it’s important to be properly informed and supported before attending court.

You may need to attend court for various reasons, including:

• Family law matters, such as parenting orders, property disputes, or divorce proceedings
• Civil matters, including debt claims or neighbourhood disputes
• Estate disputes, such as contested wills or probate challenges
• Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) or other protective orders
• Compliance or enforcement proceedings for existing orders

Each case type has its own process, and the court may require your physical attendance or permit remote appearances via video link, depending on the jurisdiction and nature of the hearing.

What Happens at a Court Appearance?

A court appearance may involve:

• Directions hearings, where the judge sets out how the case will proceed
• Interim hearings, where temporary decisions are made while a matter is ongoing
• Final hearings or trials, where evidence is heard and a decision is made

The court expects participants to be respectful, punctual, and well-prepared. You may be required to give evidence, respond to questions, or clarify documents you have submitted. While some matters are resolved through agreement or mediation before reaching court, others may require a judge to make a final decision.

Why Preparation and Legal Support Matter

Court procedures are formal and can move quickly. Being properly prepared—with all required documents and an understanding of what to expect—can reduce stress and ensure you present your case clearly. Legal support can help you:

• Meet deadlines and filing requirements
• Understand court etiquette and process
• Prepare clear, relevant submissions
• Navigate cross-examination or evidence rules

Even for straightforward matters, legal guidance can help ensure compliance with court rules and improve your ability to respond effectively during a hearing.