Emergency Protection Orders (EPO) are obtained from the court to ensure the short-term safety of a child. Applications for an EPO can be made by anyone including a local authority or other authorise body.
The court will only make the order if they are satisfied that there is reasonable cause to believe that the child is likely to suffer significant harm if:
- they are not removed to accommodation provided by the local authority; or
- they do not remain in the place where they are currently being accommodated (such as in hospital).
In exceptional circumstances a local authority can apply for an EPO without notice to the parents. If you find yourself on the receiving end of such an order, get in touch with us immediately to seek advice on what to do next.
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