How Does A PPO Work? TODD LEVITT,
by
Todd L. Levitt on Oct. 09, 2013
Summary: Todd Levitt, CMU Student Lawyer, 989-772-6000, Todd Levitt has been representing students for more than 20 years
In a personal protection order (PPO), a court orders another person to stop threats or violence against
you. There are two types of PPO:
1. Domestic PPO: You may get a domestic PPO if the person you want protection from is:
1. Domestic PPO: You may get a domestic PPO if the person you want protection from is:
• your spouse or former spouse.
• someone with whom you have a child in common.
• someone you are dating or dated in the past.
• someone who lives now, or has ever lived, in the
same household with you.
You must show the court that this person is
interfering with your personal freedom or has
threatened or committed violence against you.
2. Stalking PPO: You may get a stalking PPO
2. Stalking PPO: You may get a stalking PPO
to protect you from anyone else who has done a
pattern of two or more acts without your consent
that make you feel threatened, harassed, frightened, or molested. You may not get either type of PPO against your
minor child. A minor child cannot get a PPO against a parent. In these cases, contact the Juvenile Division of the Family Court.
1. You must arrange for delivery of the PPO and petition to the respondent. This delivery is called “service.” Service options vary based on geographic area of the state. Here are some service options:
• by a police department – some will deliver
PPOs free of charge. Call your local domestic
violence program to ask about police
department service in your area.
• by a process server – you will have to pay the
process server a fee.
• by an adult other than you.
• by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, delivery restricted to addressee.
2. After service, you must file a “proof of service” with the court clerk.
3. Develop a safety plan. Remember that the Michigan State Police will send the respondent a letter about firearms restrictions that apply because of the PPO within 24 hours after they are notified of the PPO.For help and support with the PPO service, proof of service and developing a safety plan, call your local domestic violence program listed in your
2. After service, you must file a “proof of service” with the court clerk.
3. Develop a safety plan. Remember that the Michigan State Police will send the respondent a letter about firearms restrictions that apply because of the PPO within 24 hours after they are notified of the PPO.For help and support with the PPO service, proof of service and developing a safety plan, call your local domestic violence program listed in your
telephone directory, or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 TT
© 2025 LAWYER.COM INC.
Use of this website constitutes acceptance of Lawyer.com’s Terms of Use, Email, Phone, & Text Message and Privacy Policies.