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The new Protection Against Family Violence Act provides additional legal tools to help protect people who are threatened with family violence. This Act provides for Emergency Protection Orders, Protection Orders and Warrants to permit entry.

The main tool in the Act is the Emergency Protection Order. The Emergency Protection Order helps protect victims of family violence who, because of the serious or urgent nature of their situation, require assistance without delay. Sufferers of family violence can apply for an Emergency Protection Order 24 hours a day/7 days a week, either by contacting their local RCMP or by calling 1-866-223-7775. The RCMP and Family Violence Counsellors at the YWCA Alison McAteer House are designated and trained to assist people in applying for Emergency Protection Orders.

An Emergency Protection Order can grant sole use of a home or other property, restrict communication between the people involved, and order the seizure of weapons or firearms by the police. Protection Orders may include some of the same protections. They can also include financial compensation or require the respondent to participate in counselling.

Protections under this Act are available to anyone in a family or intimate relationship. For example, a spouse or former spouse, someone who has had a child with the accused, or the parent or grandparent of any of these people may apply.

For more information about the Act, please contact:

Rebecca Latour
Family Violence Legislation Implementation Coordinator
Policy and Planning
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories
Box 1320
Yellowknife NT  X1A 2L9

Phone: (867) 920-3288
Fax:     (867) 873-0659