The Alberta Court of Justice has recently announced changes to the Emergency Protection Order (“EPO”) process and procedure.
Effective January 19, 2024, the Provincial Hearing Office will not initiate telephone EPO’s with members of the public between 11:30 pm and 8:00 am. EPO applicants will retain their position in the queue if their application is submitted by 11:30 pm the previous day.
The Provincial Hearing Office will continue to only accept applications outside of regular business hours. Applicants that wish to apply for an EPO during business hours should do so in person at their nearest courthouse. EPO’s made by peace officers and/or other individuals specified under section 3 of the Protection Against Family Violence Regulations will continue to be accepted 24 hours a day.
