Served with an EPO
EPO Respondent Lawyers in Edmonton
An Emergency Protection Order can remove you from your home and cut off contact with your children before you've had a chance to be heard. The review hearing is your opportunity — and it comes quickly.
Our EPO lawyers in Edmonton act for respondents served with an Emergency Protection Order under Alberta's Protection Against Family Violence Act, preparing evidence and representing them at the Court of King's Bench review hearing.
How we help respondents
- Reviewing the order & evidence
- Advice on compliance
- Preparing affidavit evidence
- Representation at the review hearing
- Arranging to collect belongings
- Parenting & property issues
Follow the order exactly. Even if you believe it's unfair, do not contact the protected person or go where the order prohibits. A breach can lead to arrest and charges, and will hurt your case.
What happens after you're served
An EPO is granted without notice to you, based only on the applicant's evidence. The Court of King's Bench must hold a review hearing within nine working days of the order being granted. At that hearing, you can present your side, and the judge can confirm, change or revoke the order, or replace it with another order such as a King's Bench Protection Order.
The review hearing goes ahead even if you don't attend.
Preparing for the review hearing
- Review the application and evidence the order was based on
- Gather messages, records, witnesses and other evidence that tell the full story
- Prepare sworn affidavit evidence in the proper form
- Propose alternatives where appropriate, such as conditions that address safety while allowing contact with children
Related matters
The same events may lead to a criminal investigation or charges — speak to a lawyer before giving any statement to police. An EPO can also affect parenting and property matters. We handle criminal defence and family law too.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Have a question that isn't answered here? Call 780-229-4559 or see all FAQs.
How long does an EPO last?
An EPO lasts until the review hearing, where a judge decides whether to confirm it (and for how long), change it, revoke it or replace it with another order.
Can I contact my children if I've been served with an EPO?
Only if the order allows it. Read the terms carefully and follow them. Parenting contact can be raised at the review hearing or in family court.
Do I have to attend the review hearing?
You should. The hearing goes ahead without you, and it's your opportunity to be heard before the order is confirmed.
Can I go home to get my things?
Often police can accompany you to collect personal belongings. Don't go without arranging it properly.
Charged, buying, or in a dispute?
Let's talk today.
Speak with a lawyer who will give you straight answers and a clear plan.
780-229-4559 Book a free consultation