Safety • Dignity • Empowerment

Protection Orders & Domestic Violence Support in Johannesburg

If you or your children are experiencing domestic abuse, harassment, or intimidation, you are not alone. Hugh Raichlin Attorneys provides urgent, compassionate legal support to help you obtain protection orders and secure your safety.

We act swiftly, confidentially, and with empathy — guiding you through every step of the process.

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Safety Through Legal Action

What Is a Protection Order?

A Protection Order (sometimes called a restraining order) is a court order that prohibits an abuser from committing acts of domestic violence, harassment, or intimidation. It is governed by the Domestic Violence Act (No. 116 of 1998) and the Protection from Harassment Act (No. 17 of 2011).

A Protection Order can:

Stop physical, verbal, or emotional abuse.

Prohibit harassment, stalking, or intimidation.

Prevent the abuser from entering your home or workplace.

Protect children and dependants from exposure to harm.

Know Your Rights

You Have the Right to Be Safe

Protection orders are available to anyone facing abuse or harassment from:

A spouse, ex-spouse, or intimate partner
A family member or cohabitant
A co-parent or guardian
A colleague, neighbour, or acquaintance
Any person causing harassment or intimidation

We represent men, women, and children, ensuring that the legal system protects everyone equally.

House keys and property transfer document on desk with modern Johannesburg home blurred in background.

Discreet • Compassionate • Experienced

Why Clients Trust Hugh Raichlin Attorneys

For over 30 years, Hugh Raichlin Attorneys has provided confidential, compassionate support to clients experiencing domestic conflict. We act decisively to ensure your safety and legal protection while treating every matter with dignity and care.

Immediate Assistance: Urgent response to protection order cases.
Discreet & Compassionate Approach: Sensitive handling of domestic matters.
Accredited Expertise: Led by Hugh Raichlin, accredited mediator and member of the Association of Arbitrators SA.
Holistic Legal Support: Integration with family, custody, and maintenance law for ongoing protection.

Fast • Confidential • Effective

How to Apply for a Protection Order

Our firm manages the process end-to-end — ensuring documents are accurate, deadlines are met, and your rights remain protected throughout.’

Emergency Consultation – We assess your situation and help gather evidence.
Drafting & Filing – We prepare and submit the application for an Interim Protection Order at the Magistrate’s Court.
Interim Order Issued – The court can grant protection immediately, even before notifying the abuser.
Service of Order – Police or sheriff serve the order on the respondent.
Return Date Hearing – Both parties attend court to confirm or oppose the Final Protection Order.

Clear Records Strengthen Protection

What You Need to Support Your Application

Gather any information or proof of abuse, such as:

Police reports or case numbers
Photographs, messages, or emails
Medical or counselling records
Witness statements
Prior court documents (divorce, maintenance, custody)

We help you compile, structure, and present evidence effectively to ensure a strong application.
Preparing for a Protection Order: Step-by-Step Guide →

Emergency Legal Help

We Act Quickly When It Matters Most

If you are in immediate danger, the law allows you to apply for an Interim Protection Order without notice to the abuser. Our attorneys assist with urgent applications, including after-hours emergencies when needed.

We Can Help You:

Obtain urgent Interim Protection Orders.
Liaise with police for enforcement.
Coordinate safe housing and referrals to counsellors or support services

Comprehensive Support • Compassionate Approach

When Protection and Resolution Intersect

Not all domestic disputes require litigation. In certain cases involving parenting or cohabitation, family mediation can complement a protection order by establishing communication boundaries and parenting structures.

Our Integrated Approach:

Combines protection with mediation where appropriate.
Maintains safety while resolving ongoing family or custody issues.
Ensures compliance with the Gauteng High Court’s mediation directive.

Learn About Family Mediation →
Read About Custody & Maintenance →

Attorneys with specialist expertise

Our team brings accredited skills across property, family, commercial, labour, and mediation law.

Over 30 Years Of Experience

Trusted by generations of clients since 1993.

500+ Family & Divorce Cases Resolved

Guiding families through sensitive matters with compassion and clarity.

Reported High Court & Supreme Court of Appeal Judgments

Our cases have shaped South African common law and set lasting precedents.

Understanding Mandatory Mediation

Protection Order FAQs

How long does it take to get a Protection Order?

In urgent cases, an Interim Order can be granted the same day you apply.

Is the process confidential?

Yes. All applications and hearings are private and handled sensitively.

Can a Protection Order include children?

Yes. Protection Orders can cover children and dependants exposed to domestic violence.

What happens if the abuser violates the order?

Violating a Protection Order is a criminal offence — police can arrest the respondent immediately.

Do I need to attend court in person?

Yes, to confirm the Final Protection Order. We provide full representation and support.

Confidential. Compassionate. Immediate.

Get the Legal Protection You Need — Today

If you or your children are in danger, contact Hugh Raichlin Attorneys now. Our experienced attorneys act swiftly to protect you and ensure your safety through urgent legal intervention.

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