How to Get an Emergency Protection Order in Prince Edward Island

A survivor-friendly overview of PEI Emergency Protection Orders and longer-term options.

Understanding Emergency Protective Orders (EPO)

What is an Emergency Protective Order (EPO)?

An Emergency Protective Order (EPO) is a short-term legal order issued by a court to provide immediate protection to someone who may be at risk of harm. It is designed to quickly restrict contact or proximity of an individual who poses a potential threat.

Application and Rapid-Issue Process

To obtain an EPO, an application is typically made to a court or law enforcement agency, often during or shortly after an incident. Because these orders are urgent, the process is expedited. A judge can issue the order quickly, sometimes the same day, based on the information presented, even without the other person's presence at that moment.

Service and Review Hearings

Once issued, the EPO must be officially delivered to the person named in the order. This is called “service.” After service, a court hearing is scheduled, usually within a few days, to review the situation more thoroughly. Both parties have the opportunity to speak at this hearing, and the court decides whether to extend, modify, or terminate the order.

Possible Long-Term Court Orders

If ongoing protection is needed, a long-term restraining order or protective order may be requested following the expiration of the EPO. These longer orders provide continued legal restrictions and protections as determined by the court.

Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.