Emergency Firearm Protection Orders

Get Protection

If someone you know is experiencing a crisis and is in danger of harming themselves or others, a Firearm Restraining Order (FRO) may be an essential first step in preventing gun violence. Sometimes called a Red Flag Law, a FRO order allows family members, household members, and law enforcement to work with courts to temporarily remove guns and prevent the purchase of new guns by individuals who pose a significant risk of harm to themselves or others.

If you are in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or dial 911.

How to File a FRO

Step 1 - Get Started

Request a petition from your local circuit court or click the button below to download the form.

Step 2 - Petition

Complete and submit the petition to the circuit court where the respondent or person in crisis lives. Circuit court clerks are required to assist you through this process for FREE. Call the Circuit Court of Cook County at 312-603-4357 to get help. Be sure to make copies of your petition.

Step 3 - Summons

If the judge issues an FRO, the court will send the FRO to local law enforcement to serve the summons. This is a no cost to the petitioner.

Step 4 - Hearing

Attend the hearing scheduled by the court. A hearing will be scheduled within 14 days of the summons being served. When attending the hearing, bring any documents that help prove the reasons you think a FRO is necessary and copies of all FRO forms filed with the Court. Some of the documents and other evidence that may help your case include: