No one should feel unsafe in their own home or relationship. Domestic abuse can take many forms—physical, emotional, psychological, or financial—and Maryland law provides protections for victims through protective orders.
If you or your child are in danger, it is important to understand the legal tools available to help you find safety.
What is a Protective Order?
A protective order is a court order that helps protect victims of domestic violence by placing restrictions on the abuser. In Maryland, protective orders are governed by the Maryland Code, Family Law Article §4-501 through §4-516.
Protective orders can:
- Require the abuser to surrender firearms.
- Require the abuser to stop threatening or harming you.
- Order the abuser to stay away from your home, workplace, or child’s school.
- Grant you temporary use and possession of the family home.
- Award temporary custody of children.
How Does Maryland Define Abuse?
- An act that causes serious bodily harm (e.g. hitting, choking, shooting, shoving, or biting)
- An act that places someone in fear of imminent serious bodily harm (including threats)
- Assault, rape, or sexual assault
- Mental injury to a child or minor
- Stalking
Who Can File for a Protective Order?
Under Md. Code, Fam. Law §4-501, a person may seek a protective order if the abuse was committed by:
- A current or former spouse.
- Someone with whom you share a child.
- A person you live with (or have lived with) in an intimate relationship.
- A family member (by blood, marriage, or adoption).
- A person you had a sexual relationship with within the last year.
How to File for a Protective Order in Maryland
- Interim Protective Order – If courts are closed (nights, weekends, holidays), you may file with a District Court commissioner.
- Temporary Protective Order – Once courts are open, a judge can issue a temporary order, usually lasting up to 7 days, until a final hearing is held.
- Final Protective Order – After a hearing where both parties can testify, the court may issue a final protective order lasting up to one year (and sometimes longer, if extended or made permanent in certain circumstances, under Md. Code, Fam. Law §4-506).
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Protective orders can have immediate and lasting effects on custody, housing, and safety. An attorney can:
- Defend you if you are falsely accused of abuse and served with a protective order.
- Help you present evidence of abuse.
- Ensure the court considers custody and child safety provisions.
Taking the First Step
At Wasserman White Family Law, we know how urgent these situations are. If you or your children are in danger, we will act quickly to help you seek the protections you need.
If you are considering filing—or if you have been served with a protective order—contact our office immediately. We can guide you through Maryland’s protective order process and advocate for your safety and rights.
If you need immediate assistance with a domestic abuse situation, please call the local authorities, or National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522.