ANNE ARUNDEL, CALVERT, CHARLES, ST. MARY’S & PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTIES.
Protective & Peace Orders in Calvert, St. Mary's & Prince George's Counties
Whether You Need Protection or You Have Been Served, the Hearing Moves Fast
A protective order can keep you safe, or it can upend your home, your job, and your time with your children. Either way, the court date comes quickly and you only get one chance to be heard. We help you walk in prepared.
These Cases Carry More Weight Than People Expect
A protective order is decided fast, often on conflicting accounts of what happened, and the result reaches far beyond the courtroom. It can determine who stays in the home, who has the children, and whether someone keeps their job or their right to own a firearm.
That is true whether you are asking for protection or defending against an order you believe is unfair. Both sides deserve a clear, well prepared case. We help you gather the right evidence, tell your story straight, and make sure the court hears what actually matters.
Talk to a Lawyer Before Your HearingWhat Is at Stake
- Who stays in the family home
- Custody and contact with your children
- Your job, especially in licensed fields
- Your right to possess a firearm
- A record that can follow you for years
How We Help
We Represent Both Sides of These Cases
Protective order matters are not one sided, and neither is good representation. Find your situation below.
Seeking a Protective Order
If you are facing abuse, threats, or harassment, we help you petition for protection, prepare your evidence, and stand with you at the hearing so the court understands the danger you are in.
Defending Against an Order
Served with a protective order? The consequences are serious and the accusations are not always true. We build your defense, challenge weak evidence, and protect your home, your job, and your rights.
Domestic Violence Orders
Protective orders in Maryland apply to people in close relationships: spouses, partners, family, and others who share a home. These cases tie directly to custody and criminal charges, and we handle that overlap.
Peace Orders
When the other person is not a family member or partner, a neighbor, coworker, or acquaintance, the right tool is a peace order. We handle these on both sides, from filing to defense.
Cyberstalking & Harassment
Threats and stalking increasingly happen online. Maryland law reaches that conduct, and we help victims document it and seek protection, and help the accused respond to it.
Read about cyberstalking orders →Violations & Modifications
When an order is broken, or when one needs to be changed or lifted as circumstances shift, we go back to court. Violating an order is a criminal matter, so these are handled with care on both sides.
How We Prepare Your Case
These hearings are won on preparation. The side that walks in organized and credible usually walks out ahead.
We Move Quickly
The hearing is days away. We get to work immediately on the evidence and the plan, so you are ready when it counts.
We Gather the Proof
Texts, messages, photos, medical records, and witnesses. We assemble what shows the court the real picture.
We Prepare Your Testimony
What you say and how you say it matters. We help you tell your story clearly, calmly, and credibly.
We Protect What Is Connected
These cases touch custody, criminal charges, and gun rights. We keep an eye on all of it, not just the order itself.
What to Expect
How a Protective Order Case Moves
1
Free Consultation
Call us, ideally as soon as you file or are served. We explain the process and what your hearing will involve, at no cost.
2
The Interim or Temporary Order
Maryland often issues a short term order first. We help you understand its terms and prepare for the final hearing that follows.
3
Build the Case
We gather evidence, line up witnesses, and prepare your testimony so your side is presented clearly and completely.
4
The Final Hearing
We stand with you in court, present your case, and challenge the other side, fighting for the outcome that protects you.
Common Questions
Answers Before You Call
What is the difference between a protective order and a peace order?
A protective order is for people in close relationships, like spouses, partners, family members, or those who live together. A peace order is for everyone else, such as neighbors, coworkers, or acquaintances. The process is similar, but which one applies depends on your relationship to the other person.
How fast does the hearing happen?
Quickly. Maryland often issues a temporary order within a day, and the final hearing usually follows within about a week. That short window is exactly why preparing early matters so much, on either side.
I was served with a protective order I do not agree with. What can I do?
You have the right to defend yourself at the final hearing. You do not have to accept accusations you believe are false. We help you respond, gather evidence, challenge the petitioner's claims, and protect your home, your job, and your rights. Do not miss the hearing, and do not violate the temporary order while it is in place.
Can a protective order affect my custody or my job?
Yes. An order can change who lives in the home and who has the children, and in licensed or sensitive jobs it can put your career at risk. It can also affect your right to possess a firearm. These ripple effects are a big reason to take the hearing seriously.
What happens if someone violates an order?
Violating a protective or peace order is a criminal offense in Maryland, with real penalties. If an order against you is being broken, we can return to court. If you are accused of violating one, you need a defense right away, because the stakes climb fast.
What should I bring to the first meeting?
Any court papers you filed or were served with, plus the evidence tied to your situation: texts, messages, photos, emails, medical records, and the names of any witnesses. Bring what you have. We will help you organize it for the hearing.
Your Hearing Is Coming. Let's Get Ready.
Whether you are seeking protection or defending against an order, preparation is everything, and the clock is short. Tell us what is happening and get a clear plan for your hearing. The first conversation is free.
Hearing soon? Reach us anytime: 240-687-0179
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC
Fax: 301-627-5848
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