A judge in Maryland can issue either a temporary or final protective order against an abuser. It is termed “no contact” because it means that the perpetrator is not allowed to have any type of contact with the individual requesting the order.

Typically, an individual who is filing the claim must be able to prove certain elements exist in order to receive a no-contact order. The petition must be made under oath and include:

  • A history of abuse at the hands of the perpetrator, along with previous injuries
  • Any previous or pending legal actions that may be occurring between the two parties
  • If known, the whereabouts of the abuser and of a child or other vulnerable adult in the case of possible abuse against either one

Contact our law offices by calling (410) 484-0400 and speaking with a domestic violence lawyer who can assist you with filing a petition.

What Are the Different Types of No-Contact Orders in Maryland?

Maryland actually has three different types of no-contact orders that are available and depend on the individual circumstances that surround each particular case. They are as follows:

Interim Protective Order:

This type of order is granted if it is believed that the petitioner has been abused and the courts are closed. The protective order can be received through the District Court Commissioner’s office, which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The abuser must stay away from the victim by refraining from contacting them in any manner. They also are not permitted inside of the residence and must stay away from the petitioner’s work, school, the residence of the victim’s family, or any other place that the victim frequents. If the two parties live together, then the petitioner is awarded temporary possession of the home. The same holds true for child custody; the petitioner is granted temporary custody of any children in the home.

Temporary Protective Order:

 This protective order is obtained during regular court hours, which are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If granted, the temporary protective order basically has the same terms as an interim protective order. This type of order only remains in effect for 7 days or less after the abuser has received their copy of the order. However, a judge has the legal authority to extend the order for up to six months.

Final Protective Order:

 This order is put in place if it is determined that a petitioner should receive long-term protection from their abuser. Typically, this protection lasts 12 to possibly 18 months. This type of protective order can only occur after the abuser has received notice that a protective order may be placed against them. Again, most of the same protections are granted to the petitioner, but in this final order, child custody is usually decided (if applicable), along with any stipulations for visitation rights.

If you are the victim of domestic violence and need a no-contact order, our attorneys can help guide you through the process and fight for your legal rights and safety. We will assist you with the complicated laws that sometimes surround protection orders. Contact our offices by calling (410) 484-0400. We look forward to serving you in your time of need.