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Legal Information: Michigan

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
December 18, 2023

Can a minor get a domestic relationship PPO?

If you are a minor, under 181, you can get a PPO with the assistance of a “next friend.” The “next friend” can be a parent or other trusted adult over the age of 18 who will file for the PPO on your behalf. If you are between the ages of 14 - 17, you may be able to appoint a “next friend” to file on your behalf. If you are 13 or younger, then the court will appoint a “next friend” for you.2 However, you cannot get a domestic relationship PPO against your parent unless you are emancipated.3

You may want to contact the clerk of court in your area or a local domestic violence organization for more information on getting a personal protection order as a minor. Depending on the county, the process or the forms may be different, but the law is the same. For a list of local organizations in your area, please go to MI Advocates and Shelters page. For a list of courthouses, please go to MI Courthouse Locations.

1 MCR 3.702(6)
2 MCR 3.703(F)
3 MCL § 600.2950(26)(b)