Domestic Violence Protections in Saskatchewan
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Canadian federal statutes and official sources. Provincial information reflects each province's own legislation and court rulings. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Canada has three legal systems that address domestic violence: criminal law (federal), family law (provincial), and domestic violence legislation (provincial).
The Criminal Code covers assault, criminal harassment (stalking), uttering threats, and peace bonds (section 810). A new intimate partner violence provision (section 810.03) came into effect in April 2025.
Provincial laws allow for emergency protection orders. In Alberta, for example, these can be obtained 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and without the abuser knowing.
The 2021 amendments to the Divorce Act defined family violence broadly for the first time in federal law. The definition includes physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as coercive and controlling behaviour.
When does it apply?
Domestic violence protections apply to:
- Anyone experiencing violence, threats, or harassment from a family member, intimate partner, or former partner.
- This applies regardless of whether you are married, common-law, or dating.
- Children who are exposed to violence are also covered and considered by courts.
What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence in Canada
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- Contact a domestic violence hotline for confidential support and safety planning.
- Apply for a protection order through provincial court — emergency orders can often be obtained quickly.
- Report to police — criminal charges may apply for assault, threats, or harassment.
- Document everything — keep records of incidents, photos, messages, and medical reports in a safe place the abuser cannot access.
- Inform your family lawyer — violence is a major factor in parenting and support decisions.
- Create a safety plan — include a safe place to go, important documents, and emergency contacts.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume it's not "serious enough" — emotional and financial abuse are recognized forms of family violence.
- Don't violate your own protection order — even voluntary contact can result in criminal charges against you.
- Don't communicate through the children — use a parenting app or other neutral method.
- Don't destroy evidence — keep all messages, photos, and records safe.
- Don't assume you must leave the home — protection orders can remove the abuser from the residence instead.
How Saskatchewan differs from federal law
Saskatchewan has specific domestic violence legislation through The Victims of Domestic Violence Act, SS 1994, c. V-6.02, in addition to Criminal Code protections.
- The Victims of Domestic Violence Act provides emergency intervention orders (EIOs) that can be obtained quickly (often within hours) from a designated justice of the peace. The abuser does not need to be present.
- An EIO can: grant you exclusive occupation of the family home, prohibit the abuser from contacting you, and give you temporary custody of children.
- A victim's assistance order is a longer-term order from the Court of King's Bench, obtained after a hearing where both sides can present evidence.
- The Criminal Code provides peace bonds (section 810) and criminal charges for assault, uttering threats, criminal harassment (stalking), and other offences.
- Saskatchewan funds crisis shelters and outreach services across the province, including services for Indigenous women and rural communities.
Additional Steps in Saskatchewan
In an emergency, call 911. For the Saskatchewan Provincial Domestic Violence Crisis Line, call 306-933-6100 or 1-800-214-7083 (24/7). To obtain an emergency intervention order, contact your local victim services office or call the Victim Services branch at 306-787-3500. The Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) can connect you with the nearest shelter. Legal Aid Saskatchewan provides legal help at 1-800-667-3764.
Relevant Law: The Victims of Domestic Violence Act, SS 1994, c. V-6.02; Criminal Code, R.S.C. 1985, c. C-46, ss. 264, 266–268, 810
Common Questions
When does domestic violence protections apply?
Domestic violence protections apply to:Anyone experiencing violence, threats, or harassment from a family member, intimate partner, or former partner.This applies regardless of whether you are married, common-law, or dating.Children who are exposed to violence are also covered and considered by courts.
What should I do if I'm experiencing domestic violence or abuse from a partner in Canada?
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.Contact a domestic violence hotline for confidential support and safety planning.Apply for a protection order through provincial court — emergency orders can often be obtained quickly.Report to police — criminal charges may apply for assault, threats, or harassment.Document everything — keep records of incidents, photos, messages, and medical reports in a safe place the abuser cannot access.Inform your family lawyer — violence is a major factor in parenting and support decisions.Create a safety plan — include a safe place to go, important documents, and...
What mistakes should I avoid with domestic violence protections?
Don't assume it's not "serious enough" — emotional and financial abuse are recognized forms of family violence.Don't violate your own protection order — even voluntary contact can result in criminal charges against you.Don't communicate through the children — use a parenting app or other neutral method.Don't destroy evidence — keep all messages, photos, and records safe.Don't assume you must leave the home — protection orders can remove the abuser from the residence instead.
Domestic Violence Protections in other states
Same topic, different jurisdiction. Pick the one that applies to you.