Siblings Feuding Over a Business: Can You Get a Domestic Violence Protection Order?
The Domestic Violence Act (DVA) offers strong protection to victims of domestic abuse, including siblings. A recent High Court case confirmed this, emphasizing the DVA's purpose is to provide "maximum protection" and "effective, uncomplicated, and swift legal remedy." Even in sibling relationships with a business component, like the case of a brother and sister in a deli partnership, abuse falls under the DVA if a "domestic relationship" exists, such as ongoing interaction about family matters. The court upheld a protection order against the brother for abusive behavior, highlighting the DVA's focus on preventing future misconduct, not just punishing past actions.


