Stronger Protection For Women And Children
October 26, 2009 1:45 PM
McGuinty Government Reforms Family Justice For Ontarians
Restraining orders in Ontario have been strengthened to improve the security of those suffering from domestic violence, most of whom are women and children.
A breach of a restraining order made under the new provisions will now be prosecuted as a criminal offence. This increases the protections available to victims of domestic violence. For example, if a person is charged with breaching a restraining order and is likely to re-offend if released, a judge or justice of the peace can now detain this person until the trial.
This part of Ontario's family law reform legislation came into force on October 15, 2009. The legislation also expanded protections to allow partners who live together in a relationship for less than three years to apply for restraining orders.
Quick Facts
- A new evidentiary test sets out considerations for judges when granting restraining orders.
- The judiciary now has clear authority to order specific terms in restraining orders, to better protect victims of domestic violence and their children.
Learn More
- Read the legislation.
- Find out more about additional support for vulnerable Ontarians who come before family courts, through a new investment of $150 million over four years in Legal Aid Ontario.
- Learn how to make an application for a restraining order, by reading the ministry's new self-help guide.
Ministry of the Attorney General
ontario.ca/mag