Protective orders are civil orders issued by a judge to prevent one person from committing certain acts against others. The kind of petition filed would depend on the personal relationship between the respondent and the victim who needs protection.
A protective order ensures the safety of the victim from further acts of violence or harm. A permanent protective order is generally issued after the judge conducts a full hearing of the case before the appropriate court.
In Maryland, the order of protection can be obtained from the District Court or Circuit Court of the appropriate county. This detailed information can help you understand the procedure for obtaining protection against abuse.
To get a protective order there are specific acts that must count as abuse. They are:
- Any action that can result in serious bodily harm such as kicking, punching, choking/strangling, etc.
- Any action that puts the fear of imminent and serious bodily harm in a person
- Attempted or actual rape or sexual assault
- Getting someone imprisoned in a false case
- Causing mental stress or injury to a minor
- Stalking
Who is eligible for a protective order?
If you fall into any of these categories, you are eligible for a protective order
- You are the current/former spouse of the abuser
- You are/was the cohabitant of an abuser
- You have a sexual relationship with the abuser
- You have lived with the abuser for at least 90 days within one year before filing for relief
- You are related to the abuser by blood, marriage, or adoption
