For victims of domestic violence in Singapore, it is imperative that they know their rights and seek legal help immediately in order to protect themselves and their loved ones.
One course of action they can take is to apply for a Protection Order at the family court to prevent continued harassment by the aggressor.
Personal Protection Orders (PPO) are granted as laid down in Section 65 of the Women’s Charter:
The court may, upon satisfaction on a balance of probabilities that family violence has been committed or is likely to be committed against a family member and that it is necessary for the protection of the family member, make a protection order restraining the person against whom the order is made from using family violence against the family member.
There are 3 types of orders that one can apply for under this section:
- Protection Order: a general order that prevents the respondent from using violence against the victim. This must be applied for first before the following two orders
- Expedited Order (EO): a temporary order that lasts for 28 days from the date it was served to the respondent. This is generally granted depending on the urgency of the victim’s situation
- Domestic Exclusion Order (DEO): an order that excludes or restricts the respondent from entering the victim’s residence or parts of the residence
The length of the application process typically depends on the complexity of the facts of the case.
In order to quicken the court process, an applicant should try to gather sufficiently convincing evidence such as a police report or medical reports of any injuries sustained during the violence.
While the granting of a PPO does not prove immediate grounds of divorce, the judge will take this factor into account in granting a divorce in Singapore.
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At Gloria James-Civetta & Co, we aim to find a solution that will work for you and your family. Our matrimonial law team will provide a consultation tailored to your circumstances and needs.
