Category Archives: Domestic Violence
4 FAQs on Protective Orders for Maryland Domestic Violence Victims
A protective order is a tool available to the Maryland state courts to help safeguard victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. When granted, these orders can prevent the perpetrator from contacting the victim and even grant possession of a shared residence. That being said, protective orders are not appropriate in every… Read More »
What is the Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository?
The Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository (“Central Repository”) exists to collect and aggregate data concerning domestic violence or abuse. Managed by the Administrative Office of the Maryland Courts, the Central Repository stores various records of protective and peace orders. This provides greater visibility into domestic violence offenses and enables state actors to better handle… Read More »
Exploring Maryland Laws Against Child Abuse
Child abuse is a specific type of domestic violence crime under Maryland law. In these cases, the victim is always a minor child under the age of 18 years old. Furthermore, the abuser must have a certain type of relationship with the child victim — such as a parent, guardian, or family member. Important… Read More »
What is the Process for Requesting a Peace Order in Maryland?
A peace order is a legal command from the Maryland courts that protects victims of recent criminal acts or threats of harm. Unlike protective orders — which only protect victims who are related to the abuser through blood, marriage, or other factors — peace orders are available to just about anyone. The process for… Read More »
Interim, Temporary & Final Protective Orders For Maryland Domestic Violence
Any person who is a victim of domestic violence in Maryland can go to the state courts and ask for protection. Certain petitioners will seek protection in the form of a protective order. This device enables the judicial system to intervene on behalf of certain domestic violence victims. Whether domestic violence involves assault and… Read More »
Examining the Maryland Approach to Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is particularly troublesome crime due to the relationship between the abuser and the victim. An abusive act only qualifies as domestic violence under Maryland law if there is a familial relationship or similarly close ties. In order to understand the boundaries of domestic violence in Maryland, it will be helpful to review… Read More »
Protective Orders vs. Peace Orders in Maryland
Domestic violence and similar forms of abuse represent a terrible intersection of criminal and family law. In order to protect victims from harm, Maryland state law allows the courts to issue protective and peace orders. Although the eligibility for each order is different, both orders enable Maryland judges to end abuse or harassment. Eligibility… Read More »
Temporary Protective Orders in Maryland
When an abuser commits domestic violence or other forms of abuse in Maryland, the courts can intervene on behalf of the victim. In order to protect the victim and halt further abuse, the Maryland courts can even issue a temporary protective order before a final hearing occurs. Purpose of a Temporary Protective Order Maryland… Read More »
7 Key Definitions for Domestic Violence Cases in Maryland
Domestic violence laws make it unlawful to abuse or commit other violent acts against family members. Sometimes referred to legally as domestic abuse, this offense combines certain facets of criminal and family law. To help get a firm grasp on domestic violence laws in Maryland, the following sections will define seven key terms. Abuse… Read More »
Emergency Child Custody Orders in Maryland
Whatever the individual circumstances of a child custody dispute, Maryland law prioritizes the best interests of the child or children involved. When there is an emergency or other dangerous situation which presents a threat to a child, then the Maryland courts have the power to intervene to protect the child or children involved when… Read More »
