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Take Action With Our Michigan Personal Protection Order Attorneys

Last updated on October 8, 2026

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 PPO lawyers at Cannon Law PLC. Our team can help you if you need to get a PPO against someone who has stalked, physically harmed, harassed or threatened you. If you’ve been named as a respondent in a PPO, we can help you, as well. We represent those seeking protection or those facing an order in Oakland County or the Detroit metro area.

What To Know About Michigan PPOs And Domestic Abuse

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. Our personal protection order lawyers can help you with either of these serious issues. We also handle cases involving bullying, revenge porn and internet harassment.

The Two Types Of Personal Protection Orders In Michigan

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 same-sex 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.

How Do I File 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 a family law 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: What To Know

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.

How Long Does A Personal Protection Order Last In Michigan?

In Michigan, a judge will typically grant A PPO for a minimum of 182 days – roughly six months. However, judges sometimes issue orders lasting one year or longer depending on the severity of the situation in question. You can also request an extension of a PPO before the expiration date if you have ongoing safety concerns.

What Is The Burden Of Proof For A PPO In Michigan?

To obtain a domestic relationship PPO, you must show a preponderance of the evidence. This means proving to the court that it is more likely than not that your ex-partner engaged in acts of violence, stalking, harassment or threats that cause reasonable fear for your safety.

What Should I Expect At A PPO Hearing?

At a personal protection order hearing, you and your ex-partner will have an opportunity to present testimony and evidence. Fortunately, you do not have to attend a PPO hearing alone. You have the right to have a Michigan domestic violence attorney by your side. Taking legal action against someone you once trusted requires immense courage, especially when carrying the heavy emotional weight of abusive behavior. Your safety and peace of mind are the absolute priority to our PPO attorneys.

Trusted Lawyers In PPO Lawyer Cases In Oakland County

Contact our Birmingham office so we can review your case. Call us at 248-929-9750 or complete this online form to get started.