No one should have to live in fear of violence — especially in their own home. If you’ve been subjected to abuse, stalking, or another form of violence by an intimate partner, spouse, cohabitant, or family member, it’s important to understand that there are legal protections available to you. At Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield, P.C., our experienced family law attorneys are committed to providing domestic violence representation for victims to ensure they get the relief they need to protect themselves and their children from harm.

Trusted Representation for Orders of Protection

Commonly referred to as “restraining orders,” there are several different types of orders of protection that can be used in Maryland. These orders can help ensure an abuser ceases their violent behavior toward you, stops contacting you, and stays away from you and your children. Importantly, Maryland’s domestic violence laws don’t only cover physical assault, but they also apply to emotional, sexual, psychological, and verbal abuse.

At Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield, we assist clients with securing various types of restraining orders, including the following:

  • Interim protective orders — An interim protective order typically lasts two days, at which time a hearing is held. These types of protective orders can be issued to prevent the respondent from abusing, threatening, or harassing you.
  • Temporary protective orders — Once an interim protective order has been issued, an ex parte hearing (meaning the other side does not need to appear) will be scheduled to determine whether a temporary protective order should be granted. This order can last up to seven days if the judge determines that abuse has occurred.
  • Final protective orders — A final protective order can offer the same protections as an interim protective order and a temporary protective order. However, it can last up to one year and may be extended in some situations. The other side must receive notice, and has the right to appear and defend against the restraining order or its terms.

Our family law attorneys understand the urgency these serious matters require. If you or your children are in danger, we will work swiftly on your behalf to obtain the appropriate protective order for your situation. Offering adept domestic violence representation for victims, we will give you the support you need every step of the way. Our attorneys will explain your legal options, assist you with navigating the court process, file the necessary petition in court, and advocate for your rights before the judge.

Aggressive Advocacy for Enforcing Restraining Orders

Although an order of protection can be a highly effective tool to keep you safe from an abuser, they can sometimes be violated. When this happens, it’s crucial to take the steps necessary to shield yourself and your children from harm. Our legal team can help you enforce a protective order that is already in place. We will work closely with you to gather the evidence needed to establish the violation, file motions in court, and represent you in the hearings related to the violation.

Notably, violating a protective order is a serious offense. The abuser may not only be subjected to sanctions for contempt of court, but they may also face criminal charges. Our skillful family law attorneys will advise you of the remedies you have available to enforce the restraining order and help you secure the justice you need.

Helping You Move Forward to a Positive Future

Divorce matters may sometimes involve domestic violence and abuse. In these cases, we can advocate on your behalf to secure a temporary child custody arrangement while proceedings are ongoing. We can also fight to obtain an order that would award you possession of a shared vehicle or home, require your abuser to surrender their firearms, and ensure they stay away from your workplace.

If domestic violence is proven, the court may find that it is not in the best interests of your child for the abuser to have custody or unsupervised parenting time. In the event the child’s welfare is at risk, a judge may limit the abuser’s access or deny visitation entirely. At Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield, we will work with you to present the necessary evidence in your case to help ensure a custody arrangement is put into place that will keep your child safe.

Contact an Experienced Maryland Family Law Attorney

If you have been subjected to abuse by a spouse, partner, or family member, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Having a compassionate family law attorney by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield, P.C., we are committed to providing trusted domestic violence representation for victims and are dedicated to helping you obtain the relief you need for your safety and that of your children. To learn more about how we can help, contact us online or call (240) 301-4562 to schedule a consultation.