Personal Protection Order (PPO)

Protection Against Family Violence 

If you’re facing violence from someone in your family, you can apply for a Personal Protection Order (PPO) through the Family Courts. A PPO is a legal restraining order designed to stop ongoing or potential acts of family violence and keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Understanding Personal Protection Orders (PPOs)

If you are experiencing family violence, you can apply for a Personal Protection Order (PPO), which restrains the offending party from using violence against you. Applications may be made by the affected family member or, if they are under 21, by a guardian or relative. The court may grant a PPO if there is sufficient evidence, on a balance of probabilities, that family violence has been or is likely to be committed, and that the order is necessary for protection.

What Counts as Family Violence?

Legal Definition (Section 64, Women’s Charter)

• Under Section 64 of the Women’s Charter (Cap 353), “family violence” is defined as:
• Wilfully or knowingly placing, or attempting to place, a family member in fear of hurt;
• Causing hurt to a family member by an act that is known, or ought to be known, would result in hurt;
• Wrongfully confining or restraining a family member against their will;
• Continual harassment with the intent to cause, or knowing it is likely to cause, anguish to a family member.

In Plain Language

In simpler terms, family violence can include:

• Physical violence – hitting, slapping, or causing injury.
• Emotional or psychological abuse – threats, intimidation, or constant belittling that causes distress.
• Sexual abuse or coercion
• Wrongful confinement – not allowing someone to leave the home or restricting their movements.
• Harassment – repeated behaviours (calls, messages, stalking) that cause fear, stress, or anguish.

Where to Apply for a PPO

You may apply for a PPO at the Family Protection Centre at the Family Justice Courts or to a Family Violence Specialist Centre.

Additional Orders: Expedited Orders (EO) and Domestic Exclusion Orders (DEO)

Other protective measures include:

• Expedited Order (EO): A temporary PPO provided when there is imminent danger, effective for 28 days from the date served.
• Domestic Exclusion Order (DEO): An order restricting or excluding the respondent from entering parts or all of the applicant’s residence.

Consequences of a Breach

A breach of any of these orders is a criminal offence. Violations can result in fines or imprisonment, underscoring the serious nature of these protections. 

Who can be protected by a PPO?

Protection Orders are available to protect the following parties:

• Spouse or former spouse;
• A child, including step and adopted children;
• Father, mother, in-laws or siblings of the offender;
• Any other relative or person who is unable to look after him or herself and is in the opinion of the Court that he or she should be regarded as a member of the family.

Contact Us – Taking the First Step Towards Protection

If you or someone you care about is experiencing family violence, you don’t have to face it alone.  At PKWA Law, our experienced family lawyers can guide you through the process of applying for a Personal Protection Order (PPO). Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you take the first step towards protection and security.