The statistics are stark, and the stories are heartbreaking. Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a pervasive crisis that leaves deep scars on individuals, families, and communities across Ontario. In response to years of advocacy and the urgent need for systemic change, the provincial government has passed the groundbreaking Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025.

This legislation, colloquially known as Bill 55, represents a significant shift in how our legal and social systems address and combat IPV. For survivors in Ottawa, this Act isn't just a new law; it's a potential lifeline. It promises stronger protections, a more responsive court system, and a renewed commitment to survivor safety.

But what does this new legislation actually change? How will it impact someone trying to leave an abusive situation in Ottawa? This comprehensive guide unpacks the key provisions of the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025, its rollout timeline, and crucial tips for navigating the court system in the National Capital Region.

The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025 is built on several key pillars designed to close loopholes, enhance accountability, and centre the needs of survivors. Here’s what Ottawa residents need to know.

For the first time, the Ontario government has officially declared Intimate Partner Violence an epidemic. This is more than just symbolic. This declaration mandates a province-wide, cross-sectoral response, unlocking dedicated funding and requiring government bodies, including police services and courts, to treat IPV with the urgency it deserves. For Ottawa, this means a more coordinated approach between the Ottawa Police Service, local shelters like Interval House of Ottawa and Chrysalis House, and the Ottawa Courthouse.

Obtaining a restraining order (now often referred to as a Protection Order under the new Act) has historically been a challenging and intimidating process. Bill 55 introduces critical changes:

• Emergency Protection Orders (EPOs): The Act makes it easier for police to issue on-the-spot, short-term EPOs in high-risk situations, providing immediate safety for a survivor.
• Simplified Application Process: The paperwork for long-term Protection Orders is being simplified. There will be dedicated staff at the Ottawa Courthouse (161 Elgin Street) trained specifically to assist survivors with these applications, free of charge.
• Mandatory Considerations for Courts: Judges will now be required to consider a specific list of risk factors when deciding on a Protection Order, including threats of harm, coercive control, and a history of violence. The "he said, she said" dynamic will be weighed against tangible, evidence-based risk assessments.

Named in memory of Keira Kagan, a four-year-old girl murdered by her father, the Act formally integrates the principles of "Keira's Law" into provincial family law. This means that judges receive mandatory and ongoing training on the dynamics of intimate partner violence and coercive control.

Furthermore, the Act expands the use of electronic monitoring (GPS tracking) as a potential condition for bail or release for high-risk offenders in IPV cases. This provides survivors with a crucial tool for safety planning and enforcement.

Navigating the justice system can be retraumatizing. To address this, the Act promotes the creation of specialized IPV courts. While a fully dedicated court is a long-term goal for Ottawa, the immediate plan involves creating dedicated IPV dockets within the existing family and criminal courts. This means cases will be heard by judges with specialized training in IPV, leading to more informed decisions and a more sensitive court process for survivors.

The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025 will be implemented in phases to allow for training and systemic adjustments.

• Phase 1 (Effective Immediately - August 2025): The official declaration of IPV as an epidemic is now in effect. The principles of Keira's Law regarding judicial training are also immediately mandated.
• Phase 2 (Projected January 2026): The streamlined process for Protection Orders and the expanded criteria for electronic monitoring are scheduled to come into force. New application forms and support roles at the Ottawa Courthouse will be established.
• Phase 3 (Projected Summer 2026): The launch of dedicated IPV court dockets in major hubs, including Ottawa, is planned. This phase depends on judicial resource allocation and training completion.

It is crucial to stay updated through official government channels or local survivor advocacy groups like the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre for the most current timelines.

If you are a survivor in Ottawa considering legal action, the new Act is on your side. Here are some practical tips for navigating the process at the Ottawa Courthouse:

1. Seek Support First: Before you even think about court, connect with a local support service. Organizations like Interval House of Ottawa, Unsafe at Home Ottawa, and the Family Services Ottawa counselling centre can provide safety planning, counselling, and guidance. They are your first and most important call.
2. Document Everything: The strength of your case often lies in your documentation. Keep a detailed, dated log of all incidents. This includes:
   • Dates and times of verbal, emotional, financial, or physical abuse.
   • Screenshots of harassing text messages, emails, or social media posts.
   • Photos of injuries or damaged property.
   • Names of any witnesses.
   • Records of any interaction with Ottawa Police.
3. Understand Your Options: Your primary goal is safety. The main legal tool is a Protection Order. This order can include terms that prohibit your abuser from contacting you, coming near your home, work, or your children's school. Under the new Act, you can also request that the court consider electronic monitoring if the risk is high.
4. Visit the Ottawa Family Court Support Centre: Located at the courthouse at 161 Elgin Street, this centre provides free assistance with court forms and navigating the family court process. Staff can help you understand the new, simplified forms for Protection Orders once they are rolled out.
5. Leverage Free Legal Resources: You do not have to do this alone.
   • Legal Aid Ontario: Check if you qualify for a free lawyer. They have specific certificates for domestic violence cases.
   • The University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic: Provides free legal services to low-income residents and can often assist with peace bonds and family law matters.
   • Luke's Place: While not in Ottawa, this organization provides virtual legal support for women across Ontario.
6. Prepare Your Affidavit Carefully: Your affidavit is your sworn written statement to the court. Be clear, concise, and factual. Use your documentation log to structure your story chronologically. Focus on the most serious incidents and the ongoing pattern of abuse and coercive control. Be specific about the orders you are seeking and why you need them to be safe.

The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025 is a monumental step forward for Ontario. For survivors in Ottawa, it signals a future where their safety is prioritized and the legal system is an ally, not an obstacle. While the journey to safety is unique for every individual, this legislation provides powerful new tools and a renewed sense of hope.

---

1. What is the main goal of the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025?

The main goal is to strengthen protections for survivors of intimate partner violence by officially declaring IPV an epidemic, simplifying the process for obtaining Protection Orders, mandating specialized training for judges, and increasing accountability for offenders through measures like electronic monitoring.

2. I live in Ottawa. How does this new Act help me leave an abusive partner right now?

While some provisions are being phased in, the Act's immediate effect is a shift in a systemic response. Police and courts are now mandated to treat IPV with greater urgency. You can connect with Ottawa-based support services like Unsafe at Home Ottawa, who are well-versed in these changes and can help you create a safety plan and navigate your immediate options for protection.

3. Do I need a lawyer to get a Protection Order at the Ottawa Courthouse?

While it is always recommended to have legal advice, the Act aims to simplify the application process so survivors can navigate it more easily on their own. The Family Court Support Centre at the Ottawa Courthouse (161 Elgin Street) and services from Legal Aid Ontario are available to provide free assistance.

4. What is "coercive control" and why is it important in the new Act?

Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour—including intimidation, isolation, and manipulation—that an abuser uses to harm, punish, or frighten a victim. The new Act recognizes this as a central part of domestic abuse, and judges are now specifically trained to identify and consider it when making decisions, even if there has been no physical violence.

5. Will my abuser be automatically put on electronic monitoring if I report them?

Not automatically. The expanded use of electronic monitoring is a tool available to the courts, typically in high-risk situations, often as a condition of bail or following a conviction. A judge will assess the specific risk factors in your case to determine if it is a necessary condition to ensure your safety.

6. Where can I find a list of IPV support resources in Ottawa?

A great starting point is the 211 Ontario service, either online or by dialing 2-1-1. Key organizations in Ottawa include Interval House of Ottawa, Chrysalis House, Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre, and the city-wide Unsafe at Home Ottawa text and chat line. These services can offer everything from emergency shelter to counselling and legal support.