MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Which type of judge is responsible for granting a PPO or FPO?

1. District Court Judge

2. Circuit Court Judge

3. Probate Judge

4. Magistrate

The correct answer is: Circuit Court Judge

The type of judge responsible for granting a Personal Protection Order (PPO) or a Foreign Protection Order (FPO) is a Circuit Court Judge. In many jurisdictions, Circuit Courts handle family law matters and protective orders, which require an understanding of both civil law and the implications of domestic violence or threats to safety. Thus, when a party files for a PPO or FPO, it is typically reviewed and granted, if appropriate, by a circuit court judge, as this court has the authority to issue such orders based on the evidence and circumstances presented. District Court Judges primarily deal with less serious criminal cases, minor civil disputes, and initial hearings, but not necessarily protective orders. Probate Judges focus on matters regarding wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships, and not on issues involving protective orders. Magistrates typically handle preliminary matters in court proceedings, such as arraignments or bail hearings, but do not usually have the authority to grant PPOs or FPOs. Therefore, the Circuit Court Judge's role in this context is crucial and rightly identifies the correct answer.