Rockville Domestic Violence Lawyers for Protective Orders

Attorneys Defending Against Petitions for Protection From Domestic Violence in Rockville, MD

Restraining orders, which are known as protective orders or peace orders in Maryland, are meant to protect people from harm in cases involving domestic violence or other threats. While this can provide protection for victims of domestic violence, people who are falsely accused of abuse against family members may need to determine how to respond to petitions for restraining orders. Violating the terms of a protective order can lead to serious criminal charges on top of charges related to accusations of domestic violence.

If you have been accused of domestic violence in Maryland or Washington, D.C., the lawyers at the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can help you understand what you should do next. We will provide the legal help you need, making sure you can protect your rights, defend against criminal charges, and respond to requests for restraining orders. We will work to minimize the impact that these accusations will have on your life and prevent problems that could affect your relationship with your children or other family members.

When Can Someone File a Petition for Protection From Domestic Violence?

A person may file a petition for a restraining if they have experienced domestic violence, which may include assault, threats to inflict injuries, sexual offenses, false imprisonment, stalking, or revenge pornography. They will need to prove that the person named in the petition committed an act of abuse and that legal measures should be taken to provide protection against harm.

There are two types of restraining orders that may be available. A protective order will cover situations involving accusations of domestic violence between spouses, ex-spouses, people who are related by blood or marriage, couples who lived together for 90 days out of the past year, or parents who share a child. Peace orders may be used to provide protection for people who have experienced stalking, harassment, or abuse by someone other than a family member, a romantic partner, or a member of their household.

Safeguards That May Be Used in Restraining Orders

Restraining orders may put restrictions in place to protect the petitioner, including:

• No-Contact Requirements: An order may prohibit phone calls, emails, text messages, or in-person contact between the petitioner and respondent.
• Stay-Away Requirements: The respondent may be required to avoid specific locations, such as the petitioner's home, workplace, or school.
• Prohibited Behaviors: An order may state that the respondent is prohibited from engaging in any acts of abuse or domestic violence, as well as any forms of harassment or threats.
• Possession of Property: The petitioner may be given the right to maintain sole ownership of a couple's home, a vehicle, or other property.
• Child Custody: An order may establish a temporary custody schedule detailing when children will stay with each parent, as well as details about how children may be transported or exchanged. If necessary, a parent may be restricted to supervised visitation with their children.
• Financial Support: The respondent may be ordered to pay child support or spousal support to help address the financial needs of the petitioner or the couple's children.
• Counseling: A person accused of domestic violence may be ordered to participate in psychological treatment or substance abuse treatment.

Penalties for Violating a Restraining Order

A person who violates any of the terms of a restraining order could face additional criminal charges. If you are convicted of this offense, you could be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail and fined up to $1,000. These penalties are in addition to any other consequences of a conviction for domestic assault or other offenses related to domestic violence.

Responding to Domestic Violence Petitions

When you have been accused of domestic violence, you will need to make sure you respond correctly. If a family member has filed a petition for protection from domestic violence, the court may issue an emergency protective order without giving you a chance to defend yourself. If you are notified of an emergency restraining order, you must follow its terms to avoid potential criminal charges for a violation. By contacting our attorneys right away, you can determine the best steps to take to defend against a permanent protective order and address other criminal charges related to domestic violence.

At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we can advise you on the best approach to take in your situation. We will explain your rights and the legal procedures that will be followed in your case. By gathering evidence and preparing for court hearings, we can help you challenge the claims against you and make sure your rights will be protected.

We know that going to court to address these issues can be very frightening, so we will do everything we can to reduce your stress. We will make sure you know what to expect during court hearings, and we will work with you beforehand so that you will be prepared to answer any questions you are asked appropriately. We will also help you present the best possible image to the court by advising you on how to dress professionally and providing you with a tie to wear if necessary. During your time in the courtroom, your lawyer will be by your side, advocating for solutions that will protect you and your family going forward.

Contact Our Rockville Restraining Order Defense Attorneys

If you need to address a restraining order in a domestic violence case, the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder is ready to help you. We represent clients in Rockville and Montgomery County, most other counties in Maryland, and Washington, D.C. Call 301-762-7500 or contact us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation.