Protective Orders & Domestic Violence Attorneys

We provide experienced, strategic representation in cases involving domestic violence, vulnerable adult abuse, financial exploitation, high-conflict custody disputes, and overlapping family and probate matters.

Understanding Protective Orders in Maryland

Maryland law allows courts to issue protective orders when the parties share a qualifying relationship, including spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, family members, parents of a child in common, individuals who have had a sexual relationship, and vulnerable adults seeking protection from abuse or exploitation.

Petitions on behalf of vulnerable adults may be filed by the individual, family members, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, healthcare providers, social services agencies, law enforcement officers, and other authorized persons with a legitimate interest in the individual's welfare.

Types of Protective Orders

Maryland offers different types of protection depending on your relationship with the person you need protection from:

Protective Orders (Domestic Violence)

Protective orders are available when the parties share a qualifying relationship under Maryland law, including current or former spouses, individuals who have lived together for at least ninety (90) days within the past year, persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption, parents of a child in common, individuals who have had a sexual relationship within the past year, and vulnerable adults seeking protection from abuse or exploitation. A protective order on behalf of a vulnerable adult may be filed by the vulnerable adult, a family member, a legal guardian, an attorney-in-fact under a valid power of attorney, a court-appointed fiduciary, a healthcare provider, a social services agency, a law enforcement officer, or any other person authorized by law who has a legitimate interest in the vulnerable adult's safety and welfare.

Peace Orders

Peace orders provide protection from abuse, harassment, or threats by individuals who do not qualify under the protective order statutes, including neighbors, coworkers, acquaintances, strangers, and individuals in dating or social relationships that do not meet the legal requirements for a protective order.

The Protective Order Process

Obtaining a protective order typically involves multiple stages:

Interim Protective Order

When court is not open, a District Court commissioner can issue an interim protective order that provides temporary protection until the court opens. This order is valid until a judge can hear your case.

Temporary Protective Order

A judge can issue a temporary protective order after reviewing your petition. This order typically lasts seven days and sets a hearing date for the final protective order. The respondent is served with notice of the final protective order hearing.

Final Protective Order

After a hearing where both parties can present evidence and testimony, a judge may issue a final protective order lasting up to one year (or up to two years in certain circumstances). Final orders can be extended upon petition.

Protective Order Relief

Depending on the circumstances, protective orders may require the respondent to stay away from the petitioner, prohibit all contact, award temporary custody, establish child support, grant exclusive use of a residence, direct custody of household pets, require surrender of firearms, mandate counseling, and award temporary use of a vehicle.

In cases involving vulnerable adults, courts may also restrict financial access and prohibit contact with accounts, caregivers, or fiduciaries.

How Protective Orders Affect Other Cases

Protective orders frequently intersect with divorce, custody, child support, immigration, financial exploitation, and guardianship proceedings. Evidence developed in protective order cases is often critical in later probate, guardianship, and estate litigation matters.

Our firm provides coordinated representation when multiple legal proceedings overlap.

Helping Victims Seek Protection

If you have experienced abuse, our attorneys can help you:

• Understand whether a protective order or peace order is appropriate
• Prepare and file the necessary paperwork
• Gather evidence to support your petition
• Represent you at hearings
• Coordinate with divorce and custody proceedings
• Develop safety planning strategies
• Connect you with victim advocacy resources

We approach these cases with sensitivity and understand the courage it takes to seek help. Your safety and confidentiality are our priorities.

Defense Against Protective Order Allegations

Individuals served with protective order petitions have the right to defend themselves at a hearing. False or exaggerated allegations sometimes arise in contentious divorce, custody, or estate disputes. Our attorneys assist respondents in preparing defenses, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, negotiating appropriate consent orders, and protecting employment, professional licenses, and security clearances.

A protective order can affect housing, custody, firearms rights, reputation, and professional standing. Effective representation is essential.

Consent Protective Orders

In some cases, parties agree to a consent protective order without admitting that abuse occurred. This can be an option when both parties want to move forward without a contested hearing. Our attorneys can help negotiate terms that protect everyone's interests.

Violations and Enforcement

Violating a protective order is a criminal offense in Maryland. If someone has violated a protective order against you, contact law enforcement immediately. We can also help you file a motion for contempt in court.

If you have been accused of violating a protective order, seek legal representation immediately. These charges can result in criminal penalties, including jail time.

Confidentiality and Safety

We understand the safety concerns that come with domestic violence situations. Our office takes measures to protect your privacy and safety, including:

• Confidential consultations
• Secure document handling
• Awareness of safety planning considerations
• Coordination with victim advocates when appropriate

Contact Us for Help

Whether you need protection or are facing allegations, contact Leffler, Bayoumi & Oliver, LLC, for a confidential consultation. We will listen to your situation, explain your options, and provide the experienced legal representation you need during this difficult time.