Updated: March 9, 2010
Misdemeanor Criminal Procedure
Columns Written by Prosecutor Bahrman
PERSONAL PROTECTION ORDER (PPO)
PPO Petition-Domestic Relationship
Use this petition if you and the respondent (person you want a PPO against)
- Are husband and wife
- Were husband and wife
- Have or had a dating relationship
- Reside or resided in the same household
- Have a child in common
Use this petition if you and respondent
- Are NOT husband and wife
- Were NEVER husband and wife
- Do NOT have or had a dating relationship
- Do NOT reside or have ever resided in the same household
- Do NOT have a child in common
Use this Motion if the Respondent has violated a term or terms listed in the PPO
FAQ
What is a PPO?
A PPO is an order issued by the court. It can protect you from harassment, assault, beating, molesting, wounding or stalking by another person. The order can also prohibit him/her from entering your premises and from removing minor children unless the removal is part of court-ordered visitation.
When will the PPO go into effect?
The order goes into effect as soon as the judge signs it. The County Clerk’s office is responsible for providing a copy of the order to the local police agency so that it can immediately be entered into the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN).
Do I need an attorney?
No. These forms will allow you to file a PPO yourself.
Who is available to help me file out a PPO?
The Women’s Center and the Crime Victim Advocate are available to assist you in filing out a PPO. The Women’s Center is located in the basement of the courthouse and the Crime Victim Advocate is located in the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Is there a fee for a PPO?
No. Obtaining a PPO is free of charge.
What do I do once the PPO is in effect and the respondent contacts me?
Call your local law enforcement agency immediately. Keep a written record of dates and times of the contact?
What if I am the respondent of the PPO and the petitioner contacts me?
If you are the respondent and the petition contacts you immediately remove yourself from the contact. If you fail to remove yourself you will be in violation of the PPO (even though the petitioner initiated the contact).
What if my PPO is denied?
If a judge denies your PPO ask the county clerk why it was denied. Many times more information is needed or a judge needs clarification of a reason stated in the PPO. You are able to re-file with the requested changes and/or added information.
