Legal protection in cases involving domestic abuse, threats, or harassment.
Protective and Peace Orders in Maryland
Maryland law recognizes two types of civil protective measures: protective orders and peace orders.
- Protective Orders apply when there is a qualifying relationship, such as spouses, former spouses, individuals who live together, family members, or parents of a child in common. They are most often used in domestic violence situations.
- Peace Orders apply when no qualifying domestic or family relationship exists. They can be filed against neighbors, acquaintances, co-workers, or others and often address harassment, stalking, threats, or certain acts of assault.
Both types of orders can carry serious consequences, including removal from a home, restrictions on contact, loss of firearm rights, and significant effects on employment, family, and immigration matters. Violating either order is a criminal offense and may result in arrest, fines, and jail time.
Temporary vs. Final Orders
Protective and peace orders are typically issued in two phases:
- Temporary Orders – Granted quickly, often on the same day, to provide immediate safety. They generally last until a court hearing is held.
- Final Orders – Issued after a full court hearing, usually within seven days, and may last up to one year or longer under certain circumstances.
Orders can:
- Remove someone from a shared residence.
- Grant temporary custody or emergency financial support.
- Restrict possession of firearms.
- Influence future family or criminal court proceedings.
When You Might Need a Protective or Peace Order
We help survivors seek protection—and defendants respond fairly.
Domestic Violence Victims
Representation in filing and litigating protective orders for safety from physical abuse or threats.
Stalking or Harassment
Legal remedies available even when no family relationship exists.
Parents Seeking Safety for Children
Assistance in custody or visitation cases where safety concerns arise.
Defending Against False or Exaggerated Orders
Protection of your rights if an order is used unfairly in divorce, custody, or personal disputes.
These cases often overlap—here’s how we handle both.
Protective Orders & Family Law Cases
Protective orders frequently intersect with family law matters. A final protective order can affect:
- Custody and visitation rights.
- Spousal or child support determinations.
- Access to the family home or shared property.
Our attorneys understand how these proceedings overlap and provide comprehensive representation to ensure your family law case is not unfairly prejudiced.
Experienced, practical support during an urgent legal matter.
How Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace Can Help
These cases move quickly—hearings are often scheduled within days. We act immediately to prepare petitions, gather supporting evidence, and build a defense when necessary. With decades of experience in Maryland’s District and Circuit Courts, our attorneys deliver practical, effective strategies when time is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Serving Clients Across Prince George’s County and Southern Maryland
Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace, LLC has handled protective and peace order cases for clients in Fort Washington, Upper Marlboro, Oxon Hill, and communities throughout Southern Maryland. We understand the urgency, the emotional strain, and the lasting consequences these cases carry—and we are prepared to help you through them with experience and professionalism.