Take Action On Personal Protection Orders Or Violations In Michigan
Last updated on June 11, 2025
A Michigan personal protection order (PPO) protects individuals injured in a domestic dispute or threatened by another, often a spouse. If a PPO is issued against you, the consequences can be severe. Though a PPO is a civil action, violating one is a criminal offense.
Contact our experienced attorneys at Cannon Law PLC if you’ve been named as a respondent in a PPO. We prosecute and defend PPO cases, representing those seeking protection or those facing an order.
There Are Two Types Of Personal Protection Orders
Michigan courts recognize two types of PPOs, often called restraining orders. Each is distinguished by the relationship between the person seeking protection (the petitioner) and the party against whom the PPO is sought (the respondent).
A domestic PPO refers to situations where the respondent is:
- A current or former spouse or domestic partner of the petitioner
- Someone who previously had a dating relationship with the petitioner
- A current or former resident of the petitioner’s home
- Someone who has a child in common with the petitioner
These PPOs are based on specific domestic or familial relationships. The other type is a nondomestic PPO. This order protects against a person accused of harassment or stalking, regardless of their relationship to the petitioner.
Filing For A PPO In Michigan
If you require a PPO, you are considered a petitioner. We have experience representing the petitioner. As the petitioner, you need to prove to the court why it should grant your PPO. Using an attorney to draft your pleadings and appear in court will ensure the right evidence and information is provided to the court.
A respondent defending against a PPO needs to understand that violations of a PPO can lead to jail time. If someone has frivolously obtained a PPO against you, you will need to defend yourself just like in a criminal proceeding.
Responding And Defending Against A PPO As The Recipient
If you have been served with a PPO, you are considered a respondent. A respondent has 14 days to file a petition to rescind or modify the PPO. If this isn’t accomplished, the individual may be unable to live in their own home or be with their children. In addition, a respondent is prohibited from owning or purchasing firearms.
Trusted Lawyers In PPO Cases In Oakland County
PPOs should never be taken lightly by any party. Unfortunately, too many people misuse PPOs as a way to threaten, harass or gain leverage in a divorce case. By the same token, domestic violence remains a serious issue in our society. We also handle cases involving bullying, revenge porn and internet harassment.
Contact our Birmingham office so we can review your case. Call us at 248-929-9750 or complete this online form to get started.