STEP 1: You have to swear or affirm a complaint before a District Judge/Magistrate that you and/or your children have been victims of violence or threats of violence by the respondent. Come personally to the Family Court at 25 H Paterson Road.
You must bring along with you (if applicable):
- Police reports ;
- Previously obtained Court Orders ;
- Medical reports.
- Proof of relationship
There will also be Interpreters (for the 3 language groups, i.e. Chinese, Malay, Indian) to help you if needed. STEP 2: If the District Judge/Magistrate thinks that you have good reasons for your complaint, a summons will be issued against the respondent.
STEP 3: A letter will be sent to the violent party for him/her to collect the summons at the Family Registry on a certain day and time.
STEP 4: On that day, an optional free mediation service is available for both parties. If no settlement is made, both parties will be given a court date within 1 week.
STEP 5: In Court, the application will be explained to the party complained against ("the respondent").
The District Judge/Magistrate will then ask the respondent if he/she agrees with the application. If the respondent agrees and understands the nature and consequences of the PPO or DEO applied for; the District Judge/Magistrate will make the Order.
If the respondent does not agree, the District Judge/Magistrate will fix a further date when evidence of the parties will be heard. At this hearing, the parties must produce all available documents such as medical and police reports, and other evidence and witnesses to support their case.
Q: I have a PPO and DEO against my wife but she continues to abuse me. What can I do?
You must make a police report at the nearest Neighborhood Police Post. Breaching the order is an offence. The police will then investigate into the case and take further action against your wife if there is enough evidence or alternatively apply to Court for a Power of Arrest to be attached to the PPO/DEO.
Jan 08, 2009 - 02:05 AM
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