Protective Orders in Maryland: Your Shield, Your Safety, Your Future
You Deserve Protection, Peace, and the Strength of the Law on Your Side
No one should have to live in fear. No one should have to look over their shoulder, wondering if today will be the day that the threats turn into something worse. If you or a loved one are facing domestic violence, harassment, or intimidation, you deserve immediate protection, unwavering legal advocacy, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are not alone.
A protective order is more than just a legal document—it is a lifeline, a shield granted by the courts to provide you with safety, security, and the ability to reclaim your life. At our firm, we believe in empowering survivors, protecting families, and ensuring that the law works swiftly and effectively to safeguard those in danger. Whether you need to file for an order immediately, extend existing protections, or defend yourself against wrongful accusations, we are here to stand with you every step of the way.
What Is a Protective Order in Maryland?
A protective order is a court-issued directive that legally restricts an abuser, stalker, or harasser from contacting, approaching, or harming the person seeking protection. It is one of the most powerful tools available under Maryland law to prevent violence, protect survivors, and create a legal barrier against further harm.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, physical harm, harassment, or threats, a protective order can:
- Order the abuser to stay away from your home, workplace, and school.
- Prohibit any form of contact, including phone calls, emails, texts, and social media.
- Grant you custody of your children to keep them safe.
- Order the abuser to surrender firearms, preventing further danger.
- Provide emergency financial support, ensuring that you are not left vulnerable.
In Maryland, protective orders are available for individuals who have a close relationship with the abuser, including:
- Current or former spouses
- Individuals who share a child together
- Current or former intimate partners
- Family members by blood, marriage, or adoption
- Roommates or members of the same household
For non-family members—such as coworkers, neighbors, or strangers—peace orders offer similar protections. No matter your situation, we will help you determine the best legal strategy to secure the strongest possible protection for you and your loved ones.
The Three Types of Protective Orders in Maryland
Maryland law provides three levels of protective orders, each designed to offer different levels of protection based on the urgency and circumstances of your case:
1. Interim Protective Order
- Granted immediately when courts are closed (nights, weekends, holidays).
- Issued by a court commissioner to provide emergency protection.
- Remains in effect until a judge holds a hearing for a temporary protective order.
2. Temporary Protective Order
- Issued by a judge after a formal hearing.
- Provides short-term protection, lasting up to seven days (but may be extended to 30 days).
- Can grant custody of children, financial support, and additional safety measures.
3. Final Protective Order
- Issued after a full court hearing where both parties present evidence.
- Can last up to one year, with renewal options for continued protection.
- Provides long-term safety, custody determinations, and financial support for survivors.
No matter what stage you are in, we will guide you through the legal process with urgency, strength, and dedication—so you can focus on your safety and healing while we handle the rest.
How to File for a Protective Order in Maryland
If you or your children are in danger, the time to act is now. Our attorneys are ready to take swift legal action to ensure that you are protected.
Step 1: Filing a Petition
- Go to your local District or Circuit Court to submit a petition.
- If the courts are closed, visit a court commissioner for an emergency protective order.
Step 2: Attending the Hearing for a Temporary Protective Order
- A judge will review your request and issue a temporary order on the same day.
- This provides immediate protection until the final hearing.
Step 3: The Final Protective Order Hearing
- Both you and the alleged abuser will present evidence in court.
- Our attorneys will:
- Build a compelling case with strong evidence and witness testimony.
- Advocate for the most comprehensive protection available under Maryland law.
- Fight aggressively to ensure your safety, your children’s well-being, and your future.
If granted, a final protective order remains in effect for up to a year, with the option for renewal and extension if necessary.
What Happens If an Abuser Violates a Protective Order?
A protective order is legally binding, and violating it is a serious criminal offense in Maryland. If the restrictions are ignored or violated, the abuser may face:
- Immediate arrest without a warrant.
- Fines, jail time, and additional criminal charges.
- Stronger legal penalties, including extensions to the protective order.
If your abuser violates the order, call 911 immediately. Law enforcement will respond quickly, and we will ensure that violators are held fully accountable under the law.
Defending Against False Allegations of Abuse
While protective orders are crucial for protecting survivors, they are sometimes misused in contentious divorces, custody battles, or disputes. If you are facing a wrongful protective order, we will fight tirelessly to prove the truth, protect your rights, and clear your name.
Our legal team will:
- Expose false claims using evidence and witness testimony.
- Challenge inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
- Ensure your parental rights, reputation, and career are protected.
A false accusation should never define your future. If you are facing unfair legal action, we will provide an aggressive and strategic defense on your behalf.
Why Choose Our Maryland Protective Order Attorneys?
- Compassionate, Dedicated Advocacy – We understand the deep emotions and fear involved in abuse cases, and we treat every client with care and respect.
- Immediate Legal Action – We take swift steps to secure urgent protection when you need it most.
- Strong Courtroom Representation – We fight aggressively to ensure that your protective order is granted, enforced, and upheld.
- Defense Against False Allegations – If you have been wrongfully accused, we will protect your rights and reputation.
Take the First Step Toward Safety & Peace of Mind
Your safety matters. Your voice matters. Your future matters. Whether you are seeking protection from harm or defending yourself against allegations, we are here to fight for you.
📞 Call us today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you take control of your future and move forward with confidence.
