Extreme risk protection orders

When a person is in crisis, they may show warning signs that they could harm themselves or others. Family members and law enforcement are often the first to recognize these signs. 

An extreme risk protection order (ERPO) can be one important tool to temporarily reduce access to firearms during high-risk moments. 

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911.

In some situations, families and friends may be able to lower the immediate risk by safely storing firearms away from the person in crisis. When those options aren’t available or sufficient, an ERPO provides a legal pathway to help prevent tragedy.

ERPO laws empower loved ones, law enforcement, and county or city attorneys to ask a judge for an order to temporarily prohibit someone in crisis from having or purchasing firearms. 

These laws, sometimes referred to as red flag laws, can help de-escalate emergency situations when a person is at risk of harming themselves or someone else. They are a proven way to intervene before an incident of violence such as a suicide or mass shooting occurs and takes lives.

There are two types of ERPOs. Both are designed as temporary measures to avert crisis without resulting in a criminal record. 

• Emergency ERPOs, sometimes referred to as an ex-parte ERPO, last 14 days.
• Long-term ERPOs last between six months and one year and can only be granted after a court​ hearing.

If you are considering filing an ERPO, you will need to provide documentation that demonstrates the individual is a significant danger to themselves or others. You may also be required to appear in person at a court hearing.

Resources are available to help you properly file an ERPO. Your first step is to contact local law enforcement or your county attorney's office.