An EPO is an Emergency Protective Order. It is good for only FOURTEEN DAYS, during which time a hearing will be held on whether or not the court will grant you additional protection.

The next level is obtaining a DVO (Domestic Violence Order), which may be issued by the Court after an EPO hearing at which both parties have an opportunity to appear. If you get an EPO, the DVO is not guaranteed.

A DVO is valid for up to THREE YEARS and can be renewed by the Court.

EPOs and DVOs are NOT bullet-proof!

EPOs and DVOs are pieces of paper.  They cannot save your life!  They can, however, empower the authorities to take your partner into police custody if he/she is threatening you or otherwise violating the EPO or DVO.

If you are in Jefferson County and need to take out an EPO,
please call 502-595-0853 or go to the

Jefferson County Domestic Violence Intake Center

Hours:
Monday through Friday -- 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Saturday and Sunday -- 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

1^st Floor, Room 1150
Jefferson Hall of Justice
600 W. Jefferson Street
Louisville, Kentucky
(502) 595-0853

See http://www.louisvilleky.gov/CountyAttorney/dvintakecenter for more information on the Jefferson County Domestic Violence Intake Center.

If you are outside Jefferson County, contact your local law enforcement office and ask how to take out an EPO.

Remember:  If you are in genuine risk of injury through domestic violence, call: 9-1-1 immediately.