Restraining Orders

Need a Restraining Order? Contact Our Waldorf Family Law Attorneys for Help.

In 2008, courts issued around 1.7 million restraining orders. These orders, also known as protective orders, are granted by courts to protect people from domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or sexual assault. If you’re concerned for yourself or your child, contact one of our Maryland family law attorneys to learn more about establishing a restraining order to protect yourself and your children.

Types of Restraining Orders

There are three types of protective orders issued by the court:

1. Interim protective order: This is used when the court clerk’s office is closed in both circuit and district courts. In an emergency, a nearby district court commissioner will issue an interim restraining order, which will last until a judge holds a hearing (usually within a couple of days). If the interim order expires before the court hearing, it is still effective until the next open day of court. Then the judge can hold a temporary protective order hearing.
2. Temporary protective order: This is granted during regular court business hours, and the abuser doesn’t need to be present when it is issued. A police officer will serve the abuser immediately after the order is granted. These orders last for 7 days, after which time a full court hearing will happen for a final protective order. If the hearing is delayed, the temporary order can be extended by the judge as needed, but by no more than 6 months.
3. Final protective order: A full court hearing is necessary for a final protective order to be issued. Both sides will present evidence and testimony before the judge. If the order is issued, it will usually last up to a year, unless otherwise stated. The order can be extended for 2 years if one of the following is true: You had a previous restraining order against the abuser that lasted for at least 6 months, but he/she abused you again within a year of the expiration of the old order; OR the abuser consents to the 2-year order within a year after the end of your old final protective order. Some circumstances allow for a protective order that lasts indefinitely.

Contact Our Family Law Attorneys Today

If you’re under threat from an abusive partner, or your child is being threatened, don’t wait for the situation to escalate. If the abuser violates any part of the restraining order, he or she can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Call one of our experienced Waldorf restraining order attorneys today for a case consultation.

We also serve the following counties: Charles, St. Mary’s, Calvert, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel.