14 October

Protecting Against Domestic Violence: Legal Options and Support

Domestic violence is a deeply personal and painful experience that affects individuals across all backgrounds, ages, and communities. It’s not just about physical abuse—domestic violence can also involve emotional manipulation, financial control, sexual abuse, and psychological intimidation. If you or someone you know is facing this situation, it’s important to understand that you are not alone, and legal protections are available to help you regain control and safety. At the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC, we’re committed to supporting survivors through compassionate legal guidance and strong advocacy.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence isn’t limited to physical harm. It often includes a pattern of behaviors aimed at controlling, intimidating, or isolating another person. Common forms of abuse include:

Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, choking, or any form of physical harm.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse: Threats, humiliation, constant criticism, or manipulation.
Financial Abuse: Controlling access to money, preventing someone from working, or restricting financial independence.
Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual activity, including coercion.
Digital Abuse: Using technology to stalk, harass, or control a partner.

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward seeking help. Abuse is never the victim’s fault, and legal systems exist to provide protection and hold abusers accountable.

Legal Options for Protection in Maryland

If you’re experiencing domestic violence, several legal tools are available to help you stay safe and secure. Maryland law provides strong protections for survivors, including:

1. Protective Orders (Restraining Orders)

A protective order is a court order designed to protect individuals from further harm by restricting the abuser’s actions. There are different types of protective orders in Maryland:

Interim Protective Orders: Issued when the court is closed (nights, weekends, holidays) and offer immediate, short-term protection.
Temporary Protective Orders: Provide protection until a full court hearing can be held, usually within a week.
Final Protective Orders: Granted after a court hearing where both parties can present evidence. These can last up to a year (with the possibility of extension) and, in some cases, indefinitely.

Protective orders can:

Require the abuser to stop all contact with you
Order the abuser to leave your home
Grant you temporary custody of children
Address issues related to pets, shared property, and financial support

To file for a protective order, you can visit your local district or circuit court. If you’re in immediate danger, contact law enforcement—they can help you obtain an interim order quickly.

2. Peace Orders

If the abuser isn’t a family member, current/former spouse, or intimate partner, you may seek a peace order instead. Peace orders offer similar protections and apply to neighbors, co-workers, acquaintances, or others with whom you don’t share a domestic relationship.

3. Emergency Custody and Family Law Protections

For survivors with children, domestic violence often raises urgent concerns about child custody and safety. Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, and evidence of abuse can significantly influence custody decisions. If you believe your child is in immediate danger, you can request emergency custody alongside a protective order.

Additionally, Maryland courts can:

Grant temporary child support and spousal support
Order supervised visitation for the abusive parent
Restrict the abuser from contacting or approaching the child’s school or daycare

At the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC, we help clients navigate these legal processes with care, ensuring their children’s safety remains the top priority.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

Filing for protection can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with emotional trauma. Here’s what you can expect:

Filing the Petition: Visit your local courthouse or commissioner’s office to file a petition for a protective or peace order. You’ll need to provide detailed information about the abuse.
Interim/Temporary Order: If granted, this provides immediate protection until your hearing.
Court Hearing: Both you and the abuser (referred to as the respondent) will have the chance to present evidence. You can bring witnesses, medical reports, photos, text messages, or police reports to support your case.
Final Order: If the judge determines abuse occurred, a final protective order will be issued, outlining specific conditions the abuser must follow.

Having an attorney during this process can make a significant difference. At the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC, we guide survivors through each step, preparing strong cases and advocating fiercely in court.

Documenting Abuse for Legal Protection

If you’re preparing to seek legal protection, documenting the abuse can strengthen your case:

Keep a Journal: Record dates, times, and descriptions of abusive incidents.
Save Evidence: Preserve texts, emails, voicemails, and social media messages.
Take Photos: Document any injuries or property damage.
Medical and Police Reports: If you sought medical care or contacted the police, keep copies of all reports.

Even if you’re unsure about pursuing legal action, having this documentation can be critical if you decide to act later.

Safety Planning Beyond Legal Protections

While legal tools are powerful, having a personal safety plan is equally important:

Identify Safe Spaces: Know where you can go in an emergency, such as a trusted friend’s house or a domestic violence shelter.
Emergency Contacts: Keep important numbers handy, including local hotlines, law enforcement, and legal aid organizations.
Secure Important Documents: Store identification, financial records, and legal documents in a safe place or with someone you trust.
Technology Safety: Be cautious with shared devices—consider changing passwords and disabling location tracking if necessary.

If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.

Support Resources for Domestic Violence Survivors

You don’t have to face this alone. In addition to legal support, numerous organizations offer counseling, shelter, and advocacy:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7 support)
Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence: www.mnadv.org
Local Shelters and Crisis Centers: Many counties have domestic violence hotlines and shelters offering confidential support.

At the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC, we work closely with local advocacy groups to ensure our clients have access to both legal protection and emotional support.

How the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC Can Help

Domestic violence cases require more than just legal expertise—they demand compassion, discretion, and a deep commitment to your safety. Our firm offers:

Confidential consultations to discuss your situation in a safe, supportive environment
Experienced legal representation in protective order hearings and family law matters
Strategic safety planning tailored to your unique circumstances
Coordination with local resources to connect you with counseling, housing, and support services

We’re here to stand by your side, ensuring you feel heard, believed, and protected throughout the legal process.

You Deserve Safety and Peace of Mind

If you’re experiencing domestic violence—or even if you’re just unsure whether your situation qualifies—reach out for help. Legal protections are available, and you don’t have to go through this alone.

Contact the Law Office of Rowena N. Nelson, LLC today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and create a plan to move forward safely.

Visit www.rnnlawmd.com or call us to take the first step toward reclaiming your life.