Emergency Protection Order Lawyers Edmonton

When your safety or the safety of a loved one is at risk, obtaining legal protection can be essential for your peace of mind. The laws of Alberta have set up two processes for dealing with security issues through family courts: emergency protection orders (EPOs) and restraining orders. While both have wide-ranging powers to prohibit certain contact or behaviour between parties that are enforceable by the police, it can be complicated to ascertain what kind you need or how to get one. 

At Verhaeghe Law, our emergency protection order (EPO) lawyers in Edmonton are here to provide the compassionate support you need to help you navigate the process. We understand the importance of feeling safe and empowered, and our dedicated team is ready to assist you in securing the EPO you need. To talk more about your legal options, you can schedule a consultation with our team online or call our Edmonton office at (587) 410-2500 today.

What is an Emergency Protection Order?

An Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is a legal order issued by the court that provides immediate protection for individuals being threatened with violence, harassment, or abuse. EPOs are generally issued in cases of domestic violence, stalking, or other situations that involve personal threats. They work by placing restrictions on the behaviour of the designated offender to help preserve the security of the applicant.

An EPO can impose conditions like:

• Preventing the offender from contacting or approaching the applicant
• Requiring that an offender leave a residence they share with the applicant
• Restricting the offender from being near certain locations, like the applicant’s residence, workplace, or school
• And more

EPOs are temporary, but they can serve as an essential step in urgent situations when you feel like your safety is under direct threat.

How Do I Get an Emergency Protection Order in Edmonton?

You can request an EPO when you feel you are in immediate danger from a person you share a personal relationship with. This can include:

• Current or former spouses
• Common law partners
• Parents and children
• Other family members or individuals you have demonstrably close relationships with
• And more

In Alberta, certain criteria must be met for an EPO to be legally granted. When applying for an EPO, you must be able to demonstrate:

• That there is an immediate risk of harm or danger to your safety
• That there is domestic or family violence currently happening, and that the alleged abuse/harassment involves someone you have a close or personal relationship with
• That you cannot achieve safety or prevent further harm without obtaining an EPO from the court 

In cases that involve minors, another individual, like a parent or guardian, can apply for an EPO on their behalf. If you don’t know whether you qualify for an EPO, Our Edmonton emergency protection lawyers can help assess your situation and provide guidance on the options available to you.

How Verhaeghe Law Can Help With Your Emergency Protection Order

Our Edmonton emergency protection order lawyers understand the urgency of situations that necessitate EPOs. Our legal team is dedicated to providing quick, efficient, and compassionate support for our clients who find themselves in high-stress situations. We can assist you with:

• Legal Guidance: We have extensive experience with family law and protection orders. We will make sure you fully understand your legal rights and the options available to you based on your situation. 
• Documentation and Evidence Preparation: An EPO application will require detailed documentation and evidence. We will help you gather all the paperwork you need to present a strong case.
• Support During Your Court Hearings: When you go to court, we’ll represent your interests and advocate for your need for protection. Court proceedings can be confusing, which is why we’re here to guide you through each step of the hearing process.

• Follow-Up Meetings and Further Protection Orders: If you require additional legal measures to stay protected, we can help you explore longer-term protective options, like a Queen’s Bench Protection Order.

Our goal at Verhaeghe Law is to create a streamlined process for you that does not delay. This way, you can feel safe and secure more quickly.

Violations of an Emergency Protection Order: What to Do

If you have filed an EPO against another party and they violate its terms, this is a serious offence. When the offender breaches the conditions of an order, you must report this violation to the police immediately. Law enforcement services have the authority to act on these violations, which can result in further legal consequences for the offender.

EPOs are commonly violated when:

• An offender contacts the applicant directly or indirectly
• An offender enters restricted areas, like the applicant’s home or place of work
• An offender fails to vacate a shared residence
• And more

If a violation of your EPO happens, our emergency protection order lawyers at Verhaeghe Law are available to provide guidance on any additional legal measures you need to ensure your protection.

Contact Verhaeghe Law’s Experienced Emergency Protection Order Lawyers in Edmonton

Your safety is our top priority. At Verhaeghe Law, we’re here to support and guide you through the EPO process with the sensitivity you deserve. If you’re facing a threatening situation and require immediate assistance, contact the police. To explore your legal options, reach out to our skilled emergency protection lawyers in Edmonton. We can provide confidential consultations, answer your questions, and work quickly to help secure your personal safety.

To speak with a member of our team, call our Edmonton office at (587) 410-2500 today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Your peace of mind matters, and we’re here to help you take the next steps towards a more secure future.