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A Protection Order is a court-issued directive that stops someone from committing family violence against their spouse, child, or other family members in Singapore. It's a powerful legal tool under the Women's Charter that creates a safety barrier between the victim and abuser.

Once issued by the Family Justice Courts, this order makes it illegal for the abuser to use violence, threaten violence, or harass protected family members. Breaking a Protection Order is a serious offense that can lead to fines up to $2,000, jail time up to 6 months, or both. In urgent cases, victims can apply for an Expedited Order for immediate protection.

Consider applying for a Protection Order when you or your family members face physical violence, threats, or harassment from someone living in the same household. Common situations include a spouse who repeatedly hits or intimidates you, in-laws who subject you to constant verbal abuse, or family members who destroy your belongings or restrict your movements.

Time is critical - apply immediately after incidents of violence or when you feel unsafe at home. The Family Justice Courts can issue an Expedited Order within 24 hours if you're in immediate danger. Keep evidence like police reports, medical records, photographs, or text messages to support your application.

• A standard Protection Order prevents family violence and lasts up to 4 years
• An Expedited Order provides immediate temporary protection while waiting for the main Protection Order hearing
• A Domestic Exclusion Order forces the abuser to leave the shared home
• A Counselling Order requires family members to attend mandatory counselling sessions
• A Child Protection Order specifically safeguards children under 21 from family violence or neglect

• Family Violence Victims: Adults or children experiencing abuse can apply directly to the Family Justice Courts for protection
• Family Justice Courts: Review applications, conduct hearings, and issue Protection Orders based on evidence
• Police Officers: Enforce Protection Orders and respond to breaches, often serving as first responders
• Social Workers: Help victims file applications, provide supporting evidence, and offer ongoing support
• Family Members: Those named in the order must comply with its terms or face legal consequences

• Evidence Collection: Gather police reports, medical records, photos of injuries, threatening messages, and witness statements
• Personal Details: Prepare identification documents, address proof, and relationship details with the abuser
• Incident Documentation: Write down dates, times, and descriptions of violent incidents or threats
• Safety Planning: Arrange temporary accommodation and support system before filing
• Application Forms: Complete Form 1 at the Family Justice Courts with all supporting documents and required fees

• Identifying Details: Full names, addresses, and relationships of protected persons and respondent
• Prohibited Acts: Clear description of banned behaviors like physical violence, threats, or harassment
• Duration: Specific start date and expiry date of the order, typically up to 4 years
• Scope of Protection: Physical locations covered and any exclusion zones
• Additional Orders: Any counselling requirements or domestic exclusion conditions
• Official Seals: Court stamps, case number, and judge's signature for validity

Protection Orders and Restraining Orders often get mixed up because both aim to protect individuals from harm. However, they serve different purposes and situations under Singapore law.

• Scope of Protection: Protection Orders specifically address family violence within households, while Restraining Orders cover a broader range of harassment from any person, including strangers or colleagues
• Legal Framework: Protection Orders fall under the Women's Charter, while Restraining Orders are issued under the Protection from Harassment Act
• Available Remedies: Protection Orders can include mandatory counselling and domestic exclusion provisions, whereas Restraining Orders focus mainly on stopping specific harassing behaviors
• Application Process: Protection Orders require filing at Family Justice Courts with evidence of family violence, while Restraining Orders can be filed at State Courts for various forms of harassment