Risk Protection Orders
Risk Protection Orders (RPO)
In Florida, Risk Protection Orders (RPOs) are civil court orders that allow law enforcement to temporarily remove firearms and ammunition from individuals who are deemed a danger to themselves or others, and that temporarily prohibit a person from possessing, purchasing, or receiving firearms or ammunition. These orders are part of the “Florida Risk Protection Order Act”, Section 790.401, Florida Statutes, which was enacted in 2018 following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
Risk Protection Order (RPO) Process
- Filing the Petition: Law enforcement files a sworn petition in the county where the respondent (the person in question) resides.
- Temporary RPO: A judge may issue a temporary RPO (without a hearing) if there is reasonable cause to believe the respondent poses a danger.
- Hearing: A full hearing must be held within 14 days, where the respondent has a chance to appear and contest the order.
- Final RPO: If the court finds clear and convincing evidence of danger, it may issue a final RPO lasting up to one year.
If the Court issues an RPO, the respondent must surrender all firearms, ammunition, and any concealed weapons licenses to law enforcement. The respondent is also prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms during the duration of the order.
The respondent can request to have the order lifted once during the term.
Contact Your Local Sheriff’s Office
To contact law enforcement in your county, please use the links below:
- Martin County:
Martin County Sheriff’s Office, FL - St. Lucie County:
St. Lucie Co Sheriff’s Office, FL | Official Website - Okeechobee County:
Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office - Indian River County:
Indian River County Sheriff’s Office