Which statement best describes SAPO duration and rescission?

• A. SAPOs last for a fixed one-year term
• B. SAPOs require police reporting before issuance
• C. SAPOs can last for any period up to the survivor's life and can be rescinded at any time
• D. SAPOs are granted only after an arrest

Answer: (C)

Protection orders of this type are not bound to a fixed term. They can last for any period up to the survivor’s life, chosen to match the level of risk and safety needs at the time. They are also flexible in that they can be rescinded at any time—typically by the survivor applying to the court to end the order, or by mutual agreement if circumstances change. This combination of potentially lifelong protection and easy termination ensures the order protects when needed and can be ended when it’s safe to do so.

In contrast, a fixed one-year term isn’t universal, protection orders aren’t dependent on police reporting before issuance, and they aren’t granted only after an arrest; SAPOs can be issued on application to the court based on safety needs rather than arrest status.