What Is a Maryland ERPO? Extreme Risk Protective Orders Explained
WHAT IS AN ERPO?
A court-issued civil order that temporarily requires a person to surrender firearms and prohibits purchasing firearms—issued when someone poses an imminent danger of injury to self or others.
Who Can File?
Law enforcement • Family or household members • Dating partners • Co-parents •
Licensed medical or behavioral health professionals
FOR FAMILIES & LOVED ONES
You have the power to act before it's too late.
An ERPO creates a critical window of safety while your loved one gets help. It's not about permanently taking away rights — it's about preventing tragedy in a moment of crisis.
FOR CLINICIANS
Your observations can be the intervention that saves a life.
Conduct risk assessment and document observations before filing.
You have the power to act before it's too late.
FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
You don't have to wait for someone else to act first.
File a petition directly — without a family member or clinician initiating the process. Gather and document evidence: statements, reports, social media posts, prior incidents. Serve the order immediately, remove and inventory all firearms, and return proof of service to the court.
From petition to hearing: the steps of an ERPO case
For forms and procedural guidance: Maryland Judiciary website: mdcourts.gov/district/ERPO
File a Petition
Submit forms at any Maryland District Court or with a District Court Commissioner after hours.
Court Review & Initial Order
A judge or commissioner reviews the petition, often the same day, and may ask the petitioner questions. If the legal standard is met, a protective order is issued.
Order Served
Law enforcement serves the order and safely removes firearms and ammunition.
Final Court Hearing & Order
A final court hearing is held. The respondent may attend and speak directly to a judge. If granted, a final ERPO can last up to one year.
IF YOU ARE THE RESPONDENT
An ERPO is not a criminal charge. You have the right to attend a hearing and speak to a judge. You may ask the court to modify or end the order, and you may have your firearms returned when legally eligible.
Interim orders are issued after hours for 1–2 days, while temporary orders are issued during regular court hours for up to 7 days. Final orders can last up to 1 year.
SUPPORT RESOURCES
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988 (24/7 support)
Maryland Crisis Hotline
1-800-422-0009
Maryland Courts ERPO Information
mdcourts.gov/district/ERPO
211 Maryland
Dial 211 or visit 211md.org for food, housing, employment, child care, and more
Anyone Can Help Prevent
Gun Violence.
Maryland ERPO Law: Public Safety Article § 5-601 through § 5-610 | Forms & filing: mdcourts.gov/district/ERPO
* This material is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.