Survivors of domestic violence can now apply online for protection orders against their perpetrators at the Mitchell’s Plain Advice Office in Eastridge, thanks to its partnership with the Mitchell’s Plain Magistrate’s Court.
While the online application portal for domestic violence protection orders was piloted at Mitchell’s Plain Magistrate’s Court just over two years ago, survivors often submitted applications missing crucial information, which hampered their applications and issuing of protection orders, said Lucille Kennedy, gender-based violence coordinator for Mitchell’s Plain Advice Office.
Before the rollout of the online portal, domestic violence survivors had to go to court to apply for protection orders. Victims can now go to the advice office at 1 Civet Street, Eastridge, where an administrator will help with their online application.
“The application is made online, and once complete, it goes directly to a magistrate.
Anyone can access the portal, but because of the information and administrative requirements, not everyone is able to complete the online form.
“It has to be administered by court officials or with the assistance of trained administrators like those the advice office staff,” Ms Kennedy explained.
Speaking at the launch of the service in the community last week, Sharlia Grosch, representing Mitchell's Plain Magistrate’s Court manager Shadika Davids, congratulated the advice office on the additional service it now renders on behalf of the court.
This new service will ensure that more people can apply for protection orders, as the Mitchell's Plain Advice Office is based in the community, said Ms Grosch.
The advice office also provides administrative support to the domestic violence and child maintenance sections of the court.
“The Mitchell’s Plain Advice Office has a significant and evolving partnership with the Mitchell’s Plain Magistrate’s Court, particularly in addressing GBV and supporting community access to justice.
“This relationship is rooted in years of collaboration and was formalised two years ago through an agreement with the Department of Justice, empowering the advice office to directly assist community members with protection order applications,” Ms Kennedy said.
She said the partnership between the court and advice office is vital, as it brings the court’s protective services closer to the people.
“The advice office acts as a bridge, supporting survivors of GBV through the legal process, offering step-by-step assistance in filing protection orders, and even being present during court appearances for emotional and logistical support.
"Moreover, the advice office has placed trained staff and interns at the court to assist with administrative duties, helping to alleviate pressure on court personnel and speed up case handling.
"This collaboration not only strengthens the court’s capacity but also enhances community trust in the justice system by providing a familiar, community-based space for support and intervention.
"Ultimately, the partnership between the advice office and magistrate’s court reflects a shared commitment to safety, dignity, and justice, ensuring that the legal system is more accessible, responsive, and grounded in the needs of the people it serves,” she said.
Gender-based violence survivors can visit the advice office on Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 4pm.
The advice office has a dedication station to assist people with applications, which are all confidential.
For more information, contact Lucille Kennedy on 021 392 2000 or 073 342 0551.