A young netball player in New Zealand is facing significant challenges in her sport following a permanent protection order granted against her ex-boyfriend, who works as an umpire for the same netball center where she plays. The player, identified as Sarah* for privacy, successfully obtained a Family Court protection order after experiencing family violence, including coercive control, from her ex-partner. The court allowed the ex-boyfriend to remain at the netball courts as an umpire, provided there was no contact between them, and required him to make 'best endeavours' to avoid refereeing her games. Sarah requested a meeting with the netball center management to develop a safety plan, but the center declined to provide additional support beyond complying with the court order, stating they could not 'interfere with or extend the Family Court's decision.' Sarah's family expressed confusion and frustration over the lack of support, noting that the center did not meet with them to discuss safety measures. They had hoped for practical steps, such as assigning the ex-umpire to courts on the opposite side of the facility. Despite the protection order, Sarah reports feeling unsafe, constantly on alert, and experiencing a decline in her mental health and confidence. She has pulled back from some aspects of netball to protect her well-being. Sarah's parents accompanied her to games, as she felt unable to navigate the situation alone. The center refused to comment on its policies regarding protection orders, while Netball New Zealand did not respond to inquiries. A Ministry of Justice victims adviser noted that protection orders can be 'notoriously difficult' to enforce in community settings like sports clubs, where organizations often lack understanding of legal requirements and may be reluctant to intervene. The adviser recommended that clubs seek guidance from domestic violence support organizations like Shine to better handle such situations. Sarah remains hopeful about continuing her netball career, stating she has dreamed of becoming a Silver Fern since childhood, but the current situation has significantly impacted her mental health and ability to focus on the sport.

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Everyone must follow certain rules when prosecuting or defending a case in Court, regardless of whether you are representing yourself or are being represented by an attorney. Below are forms and resou...