What is an Extreme Risk Protective Order (or ERPO)?

An Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO), or “red flag law”, is a court-issued civil order temporarily requiring a person who has been determined to be a danger to themselves or others to:

• Surrender firearms / ammo to law enforcement, and;

• Not purchase or possess firearms / ammo.

Who are ERPO Navigators?

ERPO navigators are clinicians contacted by providers who help assess patients and determine whether a provider should submit an ERPO petition for a patient that may be a danger to themselves or others.

CarePoint Response trains ERPO navigators in Baltimore City to collaborate with patients, families, and clinicians to make recommendations about gun access and suicide risk, and, when indicated, manage the ERPO petitioning process.

Who can file an Extreme Risk Protective Order?

The “Petitioner” is the person asking the court for an ERPO. The law is very specific about who can ask the court for an ERPO. The following people can request the court to issue an ERPO:

• Spouse

• Cohabitant

• Relative by blood, marriage, or adoption

• Someone with a child or children in common

• Current dating or intimate partner

• Current or former legal guardian

• Law enforcement officer

• Certain medical professionals who have examined the Respondent