What Ontario’s Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025 Means for Survivors in Toronto

Understand Ontario's Bill 55—the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025—its timelines, and how survivors in Toronto can leverage it in court filings for enhanced protection and support.

Ontario has taken significant steps forward in addressing intimate partner violence (IPV) through the introduction of the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025 (Bill 55). This new legislation brings critical changes to how IPV is managed legally and offers stronger protections for survivors in Toronto and across Ontario. This guide explains the essential points of Bill 55, outlines critical timelines, and offers actionable insights into utilizing the Act effectively in legal proceedings.

Bill 55, officially known as the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025, was enacted to tackle the rising epidemic of IPV across Ontario. It addresses gaps in existing laws, providing survivors with increased protections and resources while streamlining legal procedures to make court filings and proceedings less daunting and more survivor-friendly.

• Immediate Restraining Orders: Survivors can now obtain emergency restraining orders swiftly, even outside of regular court hours, significantly enhancing personal safety.
• Enhanced Support Services: Bill 55 mandates increased funding and access to IPV survivor resources, including shelters, counselling, and legal aid.
• Specialized IPV Court Units: Dedicated units and specially trained judges and prosecutors will handle IPV cases to ensure sensitivity, speed, and consistency.

• Emergency Protection Orders: Courts must now respond to emergency restraining orders within 24 hours of filing.
• Court Hearings: Preliminary hearings in IPV cases are mandated to occur within 14 days of filing.
• Resolution Timeline: IPV cases are prioritized, with an aim for resolution within six months from initial reporting.

Immediately report IPV incidents to local law enforcement and document all evidence clearly (photos, messages, witness details, medical reports).

Visit or contact your nearest Toronto courthouse or legal aid office to apply for an emergency restraining order under Bill 55.

Engage legal counsel specializing in IPV cases. Toronto offers numerous organizations providing free or affordable legal support for IPV survivors.

Attend the preliminary hearing scheduled within 14 days. Clearly present evidence, assisted by your legal counsel, to ensure the strongest possible protection.

Utilize new resources mandated by Bill 55, such as counselling, housing support, and financial assistance, provided through local IPV survivor organizations in Toronto.

Ontario's Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, 2025, represents a major advancement in protecting IPV survivors, offering timely interventions and extensive resources. By understanding Bill 55's provisions, timelines, and utilizing available supports, Toronto survivors can more effectively navigate their path toward safety, justice, and healing.