Protective Order Lawyer Prince Frederick, MD | Haskell & Dyer
If you’re facing threats, abuse, or harassment in Prince Frederick or Calvert County, you don’t have to face it alone.
Maryland law provides strong protections for victims of domestic violence and abuse, but getting a protective order can feel overwhelming without help.
That’s where a family law attorney steps in—to protect your safety, your rights, and your future.
What Is a Protective Order?
A protective order (sometimes called a restraining order) is a court order issued to prevent someone from abusing, threatening, or harassing you.
In Maryland, you can request a protective order if the abuser is:
- A current or former spouse
- Someone you’ve lived with or had a sexual relationship with
- A relative by blood, marriage, or adoption
- A co-parent of your child
- Someone you’ve had a caregiver relationship with
If the person doesn’t fall into those categories, you may still qualify for a peace order, another type of court protection.
What a Protective Order Can Do
A protective order can:
- Order the abuser to stop contacting or coming near you
- Remove the abuser from your shared home
- Award temporary custody of children
- Require counseling or treatment for the abuser
- Order the abuser to surrender firearms
- Provide temporary financial support
The judge can also grant emergency relief the same day you file, which is why having a lawyer ready to act fast is so important.
Quote from Matthew J. Dyer, Esq.
“We help people take back control after abuse. You’re not just filing paperwork—you’re setting a boundary backed by the law. That’s powerful.”
How the Process Works in Calvert County
Protective orders are handled by the District Court or Circuit Court in Prince Frederick. Here’s how the process usually works:
- File a Petition – You complete a Petition for Protection and file it at the courthouse.
- Temporary Protective Order (TPO) – A judge may issue a TPO immediately if there’s reasonable cause.
- Final Protective Order Hearing – A court hearing is held (usually within 7 days) where both sides present evidence.
- Final Protective Order Issued – If granted, this can last up to a year—and be extended.
We handle every step, prepare your testimony, gather evidence, and accompany you to court.
Why You Should Hire a Family Law Attorney
Many people feel scared, rushed, or unsure when filing a protective order, especially if they’re still living with the abuser or are financially dependent.
At Haskell & Dyer, we help you:
- File correctly and urgently
- Present strong evidence to the judge
- Request child custody, support, or exclusive use of your home
- Navigate the system without retraumatizing you
- Connect with local support services when needed
You don’t have to face this alone, and you don’t have to stay silent.
Take back your safety with legal protection that works.
We’re here when you need us.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
Protective Orders Attorney – Prince George’s County
