You may have thought domestic violence would never happen to you, but now it has. You may be experiencing fear, confusion, shame, anger, or disbelief. These emotional reactions are normal. What matters now is taking steps to protect your safety, your rights, and your future. You are not alone, and you do not have to face this process without legal support.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you need confidential legal guidance about your options in Maryland, contact Blackford & Flohr today for help.

Step 1: Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention

Your safety is the first priority.

Call 911 Immediately

When you call 911, law enforcement can:

• Respond to the scene

• Take an incident report

• Document injuries and damage

• Separate you from your abuser

• Make an arrest if warranted

This documentation becomes critical evidence in future hearings, protective order requests, or criminal charges.

Seek Medical Treatment

If you were physically harmed:

• Go to the hospital or urgent care

• Have medical staff document your injuries

• Ask for photographs of visible injuries

• Keep copies of all medical records

These records are powerful proof of abuse and can strengthen your case.

Find a Safe Place to Stay

If returning home is unsafe:

• Contact trusted family or friends

• Consider a Maryland domestic violence shelter

• Ask law enforcement or hospital staff for emergency housing resources

If anyone witnessed the abuse, secure their contact information, as witness testimony can be invaluable.

Step 2: File for a Protective Order in Maryland

A Protective Order can help keep your abuser away and provide temporary relief while you figure out your next steps. In Maryland, you can file for a protective order in either the District Court or Circuit Court for your county.

Who Can File for a Protective Order?

Maryland allows a wide range of individuals to file, including:

• Current or former spouses

• Cohabitants (who have lived together for at least 90 days OR have a sexual relationship)

• Individuals who had a sexual relationship with the abuser within the last year

• Individuals who share a child with the abuser

• Relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption

• Vulnerable adults

If you do not qualify for a protective order, you may still qualify for a Peace Order, which offers similar protections.

What to Include in Your Petition

When completing the petition, detail every incident of abuse, including:

• Physical violence

• Threats of harm

• Stalking or intimidation

• Destruction of property

• Emotional or psychological abuse

You may also request Emergency Family Maintenance if the abuser provides financial support. To strengthen your request, bring:

• Pay stubs, bank statements, or financial records

• A list of your monthly expenses (rent, utilities, groceries, child expenses)

If you are staying at a safe, confidential location, you do not have to list your address on the form.

What a Maryland Protective Order Can Do for You

A judge has broad authority to order protections such as:

1. Ordering the Abuser to Stop Abuse or Threats

The abuser must cease all harassment, communication, or contact with you.

2. Removing the Abuser from the Home

• If you are married and share the residence, the judge can order them to leave.

• If you live together and your name is on the lease or deed, the judge can still order them out.

3. Temporary Custody and Support

A protective order can address:

• Temporary custody of children

• Visitation terms

• Emergency financial support

4. Protection of Pets

If you share pets, the judge can grant you temporary possession to keep them safe.

5. Firearm Surrender

If the abuser threatened you with a firearm or caused/threatened serious injury, the judge can require them to surrender all guns to the police.

Protective orders are powerful legal tools designed to prioritize your safety and stability.

Step 3: Attend Your Final Protective Order Hearing

A Temporary Protective Order usually lasts for seven days. During this period, you will be scheduled for a Final Protective Order Hearing, where you can ask the court to extend protection for up to one year — and sometimes longer in severe cases.

Prepare for the Hearing

Bring:

• Medical records

• Photos of injuries or property damage

• Police reports

• Witness statements

• Text messages, emails, voicemails, or social media messages showing threats or abuse

At the hearing:

• You will present your evidence

• The abuser may appear and present their version of events

• The judge will determine whether abuse occurred and whether a final order should be issued

Your abuser may have an attorney, and you should, too. Having a knowledgeable Maryland domestic violence lawyer can make a life-changing difference in securing long-term protection.

How a Maryland Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help

The attorneys at Blackford & Flohr provide compassionate and strategic legal guidance to victims of domestic violence. We can help you:

• File for protective or peace orders

• Prepare evidence and documentation

• Navigate the court system during a deeply stressful time

• Communicate with law enforcement

• Advocate for child custody protections

• Pursue criminal charges when appropriate

• Protect your rights and safety at every step

You do not have to go through this alone. We are here to support you with the legal strength and compassion you deserve.

Contact a Maryland Domestic Violence Attorney

If you or someone you love has experienced domestic violence, swift legal action is crucial. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you take the steps necessary to stay safe. Call 410-647-6677 or contact us online for a confidential consultation. Your safety is our priority, and we are ready to stand by your side.