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What is an Emergency Protection Order?

An Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is obtained from the court in urgent situations when a child is believed to be at serious risk of harm. This is normally requested by the Local Authority but it can sometimes be the police or the NSPCC. 

The order allows them to take the child out of their parents’ care or move the child to a safe place for a specific time. The person with the order gets certain legal rights, but only for things necessary to protect the child. 

How Long does an Emergency Protection Order Last?

EPOs are used in emergencies when a child is in immediate danger. They can last up to eight days, but if there’s a good reason to believe the child is still at risk, they can be extended for another seven days, up to a total of 15 days. 

If an EPO has been issued for your child, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. Our experienced family and child care law team will guide you with help and legal representation with our caring and professional approach 

FAQs

Certain individuals and organisations such as local authorities, police officers, and NSPCC officers have the authority to request an Emergency Protection Order when there are urgent concerns about a child’s welfare and immediate action is needed to protect them from harm. 

A Family Court or County Court can issue an Emergency Protection Order, depending on the area. They will assess the evidence and decide if the child needs immediate protection based on the child’s well-being assessment and the evidence of substantial risk provided by the applicant.