A Michigan personal protection order (PPO) is issued to protect an individual who has been injured in a domestic dispute or who feels threatened by someone, often a spouse or domestic partner. If a PPO has been issued against you, the consequences can be severe. 

Although a PPO is considered a civil action, an individual is committing a criminal offense if he or she violates a PPO. It is important to contact an experienced attorney if you have been named as a respondent in a PPO.

Because Sonia Cannon is experienced in both prosecuting and defense, we are able to represent a person if they need a PPO or a person who a PPO is being sought after. PPO’s should not be treated lightly by any party. Unfortunately, too many people use PPO’s as a way to threaten or harass  and/or to gain leverage on a divorce case.  By the same token, domestic violence is rampant in our society. There are also cases involving bullying, revenge porn and internet harassment. Please contact our office so we can review your case. 

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF PERSONAL PROTECTION ORDERS

Michigan courts have identified two different types of PPO, commonly referred to as restraining orders.

Each is distinguished by the type of relationship between the person seeking protection (the petitioner) and the party against whom the PPO is sought (the respondent).

A domestic PPO refers to a situation in which the respondent is a current or former spouse of the petitioner; previously had a dating relationship with the petitioner; is a current or former resident of the petitioner’s home, or has a child in common with the petitioner.

A non-domestic PPO refers to a person accused of harassment or stalking regardless of the petitioner’s relationship to the respondent.

If you have been served with a PPO you are considered a Respondent. A Respondent in a PPO has 14 days to file a petition to rescind or modify the PPO. If this is not accomplished, the individual may be unable to live in his or her own home and be with his or her children. In addition, a respondent is prohibited from owning or purchasing firearms. 

If you require a PPO, you are considered a Petitioner. Cannon Law PLC has experience representing the Petitioner. As Petitioner, you have the burden of proving to the Court why a PPO should be granted. 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 much like in a criminal proceeding.