How to Get a Protective Order in Oklahoma
Guidance on Oklahoma's protective order process for domestic violence.
Understanding Emergency Protection Orders in Canada
Who May Qualify for an Emergency Protection Order
Emergency or urgent protection orders (often called EPOs, emergency intervention orders, or similar) are usually intended for people who are experiencing family or relationship harm and need fast protection.
Exact rules differ by province and territory, but a person may often qualify if:
- They have experienced recent violence, threats, intimidation, or serious harassment from a current or former partner, family member, or someone they live(d) with
- They are afraid for their immediate safety or the safety of children or other family members
- There is a pattern of controlling, stalking, or abusive behaviour, or a serious recent incident
- The person causing harm is likely to contact, approach, or harm them again
From Emergency Order to Full Hearing
Step 1: Applying for an Emergency Protection Order
Depending on where you live, an emergency protection order may be requested:
- Through the police, who contact a judge or designated official
- By phone with a justice of the peace or similar decision-maker
- In person at a courthouse or designated office, sometimes with help from a victim services worker or advocate
In many places, an emergency order can be made without the other person being present at the first stage if there is urgent risk.
Step 2: Service on the Other Party
After an emergency order is granted, it usually must be “served” (formally given) to the person it is made against, so they know the rules they must follow.
- Service is often done by police, sheriffs, or another authorized person
- The order normally does not change until it is served, but enforcement may differ by region
- The person served will usually receive notice of a later court date for a full hearing
Step 3: Full Court Hearing (Review or Confirmation)
Emergency protection orders are often temporary. A full hearing is usually scheduled so a judge can decide whether to:
- Continue or “confirm” the order
- Change some of the conditions
- End the emergency order and replace it with another type of order, or no order
At the full hearing:
- Both parties usually have a chance to speak, file documents, or bring evidence
- Legal representation is allowed, but not always required
- The judge focuses on safety, recent incidents, ongoing risk, and the impact on any children
Common Types of Relief Available
Protection orders are tailored to each situation. They may include some of the following, depending on your province/territory and what the judge decides:
- No-contact conditions by phone, text, social media, email, or in person
- Orders not to attend your home, work, school, or other listed locations
- Exclusive occupation of the family home for one person, with the other person ordered to leave
- Police assistance to remove the other person from the residence
- Orders to allow one person to collect personal belongings at a set time, often with police present
- Restrictions on possessing firearms or weapons, sometimes with surrender requirements
- Provisions addressing temporary care of children or contact arrangements, where allowed by local law
- Orders not to follow, stalk, harass, or monitor the protected person (including electronically)
Expected Timelines
Emergency Protection Order
Timelines vary widely by region and court capacity, but in many parts of Canada:
- Emergency applications are handled the same day or within a short period, especially when police or victim services are involved
- The order may take effect as soon as it is signed by the judge or authorized decision-maker
- Enforcement generally becomes clearer once the order is served on the other person
Service of the Order
Service times depend on how quickly the police or other officials can locate the person:
- It may happen the same day, or within a few days
- If the person is avoiding service or hard to find, it may take longer and may require follow-up with the court or police
Full Hearing or Review Date
Most emergency orders are temporary and require a full hearing within a set time, for example:
- Within days or a few weeks of the emergency order
- On a date listed directly in the paperwork you receive
At the full hearing, the judge may:
- Extend the protection order for a longer period
- Change some conditions based on new information
- End the emergency order if they find it is no longer needed
For additional information on support options across Canada, including shelters and legal information centres, you can also explore resources listed at DV.Support.