Michigan's red flag law is seeing increased utilization, with courts issuing over 400 extreme risk protection orders in 2025. According to the annual report released by Michigan's State Court Administrative Office, judges across the state received 514 requests for extreme risk protection orders and granted 407 of them—an approximately 80% issuance rate.
The 407 orders granted in 2025 represent an increase of roughly 100 from the prior year, signaling growing awareness and usage of the law among law enforcement agencies, family members, and other petitioners authorized to request the orders.
How the Law Works
Michigan's extreme risk protection order law allows courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed to pose a danger to themselves or others. The law can be invoked by law enforcement, healthcare providers, family or household members, and other authorized parties. Once an order is issued, firearms are confiscated and may be returned once the threat assessment is reassessed.
"The law is designed as a civil intervention tool rather than a criminal process," according to court officials involved in administering the system. Petitioners must demonstrate that an individual poses a significant danger, and respondents have the right to legal representation and to contest the order in court.
State of Red Flag Laws Nationally
Michigan joins 21 other states that have enacted extreme risk protection order laws in recent years. These laws, often referred to as "red flag laws," represent a growing policy approach to temporarily prevent firearm access during mental health crises or periods of acute risk. The Michigan Advance reports that the surge in orders reflects expanded understanding of how the statute can be deployed.
The 80% approval rate in Michigan suggests that petitioners filing for extreme risk protection orders have a strong evidentiary basis for their claims. Legal experts note that the high approval rate indicates the orders are being used appropriately rather than frivolously.
Implementation Challenges
While the law has achieved broader usage, implementation varies across counties, with some judicial districts reporting higher order volumes than others. Training for judges, law enforcement, and mental health professionals remains ongoing to ensure consistent application of the statute statewide.
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