Recently updated on December 18th, 2025 at 02:04 am

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Prepare your documents for Risk Protection Order in Florida

This website helps prepare the forms required for Risk Protection Order in Florida.

A Risk Protection Order (RPO) is a legal tool that allows law enforcement to request a court order when a person poses a significant danger to themselves or others by possessing firearms or ammunition.

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HOW IT WORKS

Take-Screening

1. Take Screening

Start with an online screening tool to help determine if a Risk Protection Order is appropriate. This step can guide law enforcement in deciding whether a Temporary Ex Parte RPO, a Final RPO, or both are needed based on the level of danger posed by the Respondent.

Prepare-Documents

2. Prepare Documents

Our system helps law enforcement complete the required RPO petition forms by having you answer questions in plain, non-legal language. Your responses are automatically placed in the correct sections of the official forms, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

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3. Consult Advocate (Optional)

While not required, consulting a legal advisor or senior law enforcement official can help ensure the petition and supporting evidence meet all legal standards. Advisors can guide on evidence collection, affidavit preparation, and procedural requirements.

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4. File with the Clerk

File the completed RPO petition with the Clerk of Court in the county where the Petitioner’s office or the Respondent resides. Filing is free of charge and can often be done: In person at the courthouse, orOnline, if the county supports e-filing.Once filed, a case number is assigned, and the court can consider issuing a Temporary Ex Parte RPO if immediate protection is needed.

Process

Step 1

You: Gather Evidence. What do you need to get a Risk Protection Order in Florida?

To strengthen your petition, collect evidence showing the Respondent poses a significant danger by possessing firearms or ammunition. Accepted types of evidence include:

  • Pending Criminal Case: Ongoing charges against the Respondent.

  • Photos or Videos: Evidence of violence, threats, or property damage.

  • Text Messages, Emails, Voicemails: Threatening communications.

  • 911 Calls: Include date, time, caller info, dispatcher details, and incident number.

  • Medical Records: ER discharge papers, hospital or doctor’s notes related to injuries.

  • Police Reports: Copies of any incident or arrest reports.

  • Witness Testimony: Written statements from family, friends, or anyone who observed threatening behavior.

For a temporary ex parte order, the facts must be based on personal knowledge and show that danger may occur in the near future.

Step 2

You: Take Online Screening

  • Only a law enforcement officer or agency may file a petition.

  • No private individuals can file.

  • Decide if you are requesting:

    1. Final RPO only, or

    2. Final RPO with Temporary Ex Parte RPO (immediate protection).

Step 3

You: Create Case Documents - "Packet"

  • Fill out the official Florida Risk Protection Order petition.

  • Include as much identifying information about the Respondent as possible.

  • Attach affidavits or evidence supporting the claim of danger.

  • Clearly indicate whether you are requesting a temporary ex parte order.

Step 4

You: File with the court. How to file a Risk Protection Order in Florida

  • File at the Clerk’s Office of the Circuit Court:

    • In the county where the Petitioner’s law enforcement office is located, or

    • In the county where the Respondent resides.

  • Filing is free of charge.

  • You may file:

    • In person at the courthouse, or

    • Electronically, if your county supports e-filing.

  • A case number will be assigned once the petition is filed.

Step 5

You: Judge May Issue Temporary Ex Parte RPO (Optional)

  • If requested, the judge may issue an immediate temporary order without notifying the Respondent.

  • The order requires the Respondent to:

    • Surrender all firearms, ammunition, and concealed carry licenses immediately.

    • Temporarily refrain from purchasing or possessing firearms or ammunition.

  • The temporary order lasts until the scheduled final hearing.

Step 6

Law Enforcement Serves Temporary Order

  • Law enforcement delivers the temporary ex parte RPO to the Respondent.

  • The order is legally enforceable only after service.

  • Violations can result in arrest or criminal charges.

Step 7

You, Abuser: Attend Court Hearing

  • A final hearing is scheduled, usually within a few days to weeks, depending on the urgency.

  • Both the Petitioner and Respondent may present evidence and testimony.

  • The judge reviews:

    • All submitted evidence

    • Witness testimony

    • Any new or updated information

Step 8

You: Final Risk Protection Order

  • If the judge finds sufficient evidence that the Respondent poses a danger, they will issue a Final Risk Protection Order.

  • The order may:

    • Require permanent or temporary surrender of firearms and ammunition

    • Prohibit purchase or possession of firearms for up to one year

  • The Petitioner receives an official copy of the final order for enforcement purposes.

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FAQs

Who can file a Risk Protection Order in Florida?
Do I need an attorney to file an RPO?
When should a Risk Protection Order be filed?
What is a Temporary Ex Parte Risk Protection Order?
What evidence is needed to support an RPO?
Where do I file the RPO petition?
How long does a Temporary Ex Parte RPO last?
What happens if the Respondent violates the RPO?
How long can a Final RPO last?

Court Forms Created This website guides you through all the topics required to complete your dating violence documents and file your case.

Core Forms

  • Petition For Risk Protection Order

  • Order Vacating Final Risk Protection Order

  • Request For Hearing To Vacate Final Risk Protection Order

  • Petitioner Motion To Extend Final Risk Protection Order