What this involves
If you are in immediate physical danger, please contact the South African Police Service or a domestic violence helpline first — this form is not monitored around the clock. Once you are safe, tell us below and we will move quickly.
The Domestic Violence Act covers a broad range of abuse — physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, psychological, economic, and harassment or stalking — and applies between spouses, partners, family members, and others in a domestic relationship, not only married couples.
An interim order is granted ex parte (without notice to the other party) where there is a genuine risk of harm, and takes effect once served by the police. At the return date, both parties can put their version before the court, and the magistrate decides whether to confirm the order as final, often with conditions like a no-contact provision or removal from a shared home.
Breaching a protection order is a criminal offence — we help you and the SAPS document breaches properly (with a warrant of arrest that can accompany the order) so enforcement is not left to chance if the order is violated.
How long does it take?
An interim protection order can often be granted the same day it is applied for. The return date, where it may be made final, is usually scheduled within 10 to 14 days.
What will it cost?
R4 500 to R9 000 excl. VAT
Covers: The protection order application and supporting affidavit.
Based on 3 to 6 hours of Attorney time at our rate of R1 500 per hour, excluding VAT.
This is an estimate, not a quote. The final fee depends on the facts and how complex your matter turns out to be, and your Attorney confirms it in writing before work starts. Court fees, sheriff’s fees, counsel and other disbursements are charged separately.
Ask for a firm quoteThis page is general information, not legal advice for your situation. See our Disclaimer.