Protective Orders in Maryland: How to Respond and Defend Yourself

In April 2026, over 1,900 protective orders were issued in the state of Maryland. For respondents, being served with one can be stressful and confusing. You may be unsure what the order means, whether you can contact the petitioner, or how to tell your side of the story.

Many people assume they have no options. Others violate the order or skip the hearing because they do not understand what is at stake. These mistakes can make the situation worse. Respondents do have rights, and they may be able to defend themselves at the hearing. Keep reading to learn more.

What is a protective order in Maryland?

A protective order is Maryland’s version of a restraining order. A protective order states that one person must refrain from doing certain things against another. Protective orders are typically issued when the court finds that the legal standard for qualifying abuse has been met. These orders can prevent people from being around others at home, at work, or in public spaces.

A protective order may include the following elements:

• Order for the respondent to stop abusing or threatening someone
• Order the respondent to stay away from someone at home, work, and other places
• Order the respondent to stay out of a shared home in certain circumstances
• Outline child custody while the order is in place
• Outline temporary possession of a pet while the order is in place
• Require the respondent to surrender firearms to law enforcement when ordered by the court
• In a final protective order, any other protections a judge deems necessary

What is a peace order in Maryland?

A peace order is much like a protective order. It’s for people who do not qualify for a protective order, but they need someone to stop a harmful action. Peace orders are generally issued for non-qualifying individuals, such as coworkers, classmates, or neighbors.

Difference between peace orders vs. protective orders

Protective and peace orders are very similar. Protective orders are for certain qualifying relationships and cover a range of abuse actions. Peace orders also cover a range of abuse actions, but they are for non-qualifying individuals. They are also limited in duration, whereas protective orders can last for much longer.

Types of protective orders

There are three main types of protective orders that people can obtain in Maryland. They are:

Interim

An interim protective order is a short-term order that is issued when courts are closed. These are typically issued for emergent, after-hours situations. An interim protective order expires in one of two ways:

• At the end of the second business day the District Court clerk’s office is open after the order is issued
• At the temporary protective order hearing

An interim protective order can include many immediate protections, but final orders may include additional relief.

Temporary

A temporary protective order is issued in a District Court or Circuit Court, depending on the circumstances. It protects against a variety of abuse actions and usually lasts up to seven days after service, unless extended. After that timeline, there is a hearing to determine if a final protective order will be issued.

Final

Before or around the time the temporary protective order expires, there is a final protective order hearing. During this, it’s determined if a final order will be issued. Final orders generally last up to one year, though they may last longer in specific circumstances.

How to respond when served

It’s best that anyone served read over the protective order and consider hiring a defense attorney. Violating a protective order can have serious consequences. As tempting as it may be to try to talk things out, the respondent must follow the order, including any no-contact or stay-away terms.

A criminal defense attorney helps clients navigate the process. They help them build their legal case for the hearing. Attorneys also represent their clients during the hearing.

What happens at a protective order hearing?

During a protective order hearing, a judge hears the situation. The petitioner and the respondent both have the opportunity to tell their sides of the situation. During the hearing, evidence will be presented and witnesses called if there are any. Once the judge hears the facts of the case and both sides, they decide if a final protective order is given.

What are the consequences of violating a protective order?

A protective order violation in Maryland is a serious offense. If someone violates a protective order and contacts the petitioner, law enforcement will likely be contacted. If law enforcement has probable cause to believe the person violated the order, they may be charged with a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction may come with fines and jail time.

Continued violations of protective orders come with harsher punishments. Some protective order clauses may result in someone being in contempt of court. If you violated a protective order, it’s a good idea to speak to an attorney about your situation as soon as possible.

How to fight a protective order in Maryland

Many people don’t know what to do when someone files a protective order against them. They feel helpless in the situation. There are strategies to fight against protective orders, however. An experienced criminal defense attorney helps clients combat protective orders. They understand the best options available for a person’s unique situation.

Common defense strategies for protective orders include:

• Arguing that the petitioner has not established a qualifying relationship or other qualifying basis for a protective order.
• Showing a lack of evidence. The person petitioning for the protective order must meet the burden of proof. Without the proof, the evidence may not be substantiated.
• Claiming self-defense. In some cases, a possible strategy is to claim the actions were in self-defense.
• Acting in the defense of others. Sometimes, people act to protect others from harm. This is another possible strategy for a protective order.
• Challenging the petitioner’s credibility. In some cases, questioning the credibility or motives may be a defense.
• Demonstrating no reasonable fear, when the petition is based on fear of imminent serious bodily harm.

If you’re struggling with how to fight a protective order, we encourage you to contact us today to request a consultation.

Contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, for a consultation

Protective orders can be challenging for all parties involved. No matter the situation, having an attorney can be beneficial for people with protective orders against them. An experienced attorney helps their clients fight against protective orders and the related charges.

Are you facing a domestic violence protective order in Annapolis? Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, wants to help. He has the experience needed to navigate this challenging situation. He has helped many clients with protective orders. Contact the office today to request a consultation.