If you are experiencing threats, harassment, or violence, a protection order can help you regain a sense of safety and control. In Alberta, protection orders are legal tools that restrict another person’s contact with you and provide immediate legal safeguards. These orders may include Emergency Protection Orders (EPOs), King’s Bench Protection Orders, or Restraining Orders, depending on the situation.
At Colborne Allyjan Law, we understand how overwhelming these circumstances can be. Our legal team will help you assess your options, apply for the appropriate order, and represent your interests in court if necessary. We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure your protection is prioritized every step of the way.
Protection orders are court-issued documents designed to help keep individuals safe from harm, threats, or harassment. In Alberta, there are several types of protection orders depending on the situation, including Emergency Protection Orders (EPOs), Mutual No Contact Orders, and Restraining Orders.
These legal tools are meant to provide peace of mind and ensure your personal safety.
EPOs are granted when there is immediate danger or family violence. These can be issued quickly, often without the other party present, and can remove the person from a shared home, restrict contact, or impose other safety conditions. EPOs offer short-term protection until a court hearing determines the next steps.
These orders are typically used in cases where both parties are required to avoid contacting each other. They may be applied in situations involving ongoing conflict, such as custody or domestic disagreements, and help de-escalate tensions by legally preventing communication or physical proximity.
Restraining orders are used in both family and non-family situations, such as disputes with neighbours, coworkers, or acquaintances. They are court orders prohibiting one person from contacting or coming near another, often used when harassment, stalking, or threats are present.
Once granted, protection orders are legally enforceable. If the terms of the order are violated, the police can intervene, and the offending party may face criminal charges. This makes protection orders an important tool for ensuring accountability and maintaining safety.
Why Legal Guidance Matters in Protection Order Cases
Independent Legal Advice (ILA) ensures that a party entering into a contract is fully aware of their entitlements, obligations, and risks, especially in separations.
Choosing the right family lawyer is a critical step in navigating legal challenges with confidence. Family Law is a dynamic and delicate practice that demands compassion, care, and communication. Our lawyers handle each case collaboratively, leveraging over 50 years of experience from the day of your free consultation to when your file becomes closed. Our initial consultation is designed to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and offer clear, thoughtful guidance. We work hard to build a trusting relationship and offer the dependable support you need to move forward with peace of mind.
An Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is typically used in situations involving immediate danger or family violence and can be issued quickly, even without the other person present. A Restraining Order is used in family and non-family situations, such as harassment by a neighbour or acquaintance, and usually requires a court hearing to be granted.
An EPO is a temporary order. A court hearing will be scheduled shortly after the EPO is issued to determine whether it should be extended, changed, or replaced with a longer-term protection order, such as a King’s Bench Protection Order.
Yes. In some cases, the court may issue a Mutual No Contact Order, which legally requires both parties to avoid communication or physical proximity. This is often used in high-conflict situations to prevent further escalation.
While it’s possible to apply on your own, having one of our lawyers can greatly improve your understanding of the process and ensure your application is properly prepared. We can represent you in court, explain your rights, and help you seek the type of order that offers the most effective protection.