A former U.S. Education Secretary once said, “Home is a shelter from storms—all sorts of storms.” Yet, it is disheartening to know that in Maryland alone, millions of Americans—no matter their gender or age—home is where the storm is. What is even more sad is there are still a lot of unreported domestic violence cases to this day.
The law, however, created a tool to help victims of abuse protect themselves: domestic violence protective order.
What is a protective order?
A protective order is a legal tool that bans abusers from contacting or approaching their victims within a certain distance. Under this court order, the offenders must leave the shared house, surrender their firearms, if any, and provide financial support to the victims.
Who can get a protective order?
Maryland law states that when someone causes fear or serious bodily harm to another person, then it’s abuse. Other forms of abuse include stalking, forced imprisonment and assault.
To help protect the victims, the law allows certain people to request a protective order against the person causing harm. Those who are eligible to get this protection include:
- Spouse of the harmful partner
- Aggressor’s cohabitant or domestic partner
- Any person related to the offender, whether biologically or legally
- Anyone who lived with the abuser for at least a year
- A person who has a sexual relationship with the wrongdoer
- Anyone who was violated by the offender
- Any vulnerable child or adult
If you or a loved one identify as a victim, it is time to get a protective order before the situation worsens.
How to get a protective order
You need to follow several steps to obtain a protective order against your abuser. Some courts have advocates onsite to guide you through the process. You can also get help from a family law attorney or local domestic violence agency for advice.
As you begin this process, it is necessary to:
- Take photos of any visible bruises, cuts, scrapes and wounds you sustained from the assault.
- Get copies of police reports.
- Find out if there are people who witnessed the abuse.
- File criminal charges—it is one of the legal options available to you.
- Get all the financial information about the offender if you are seeking financial support.
Gathering this information can help secure protective order. It can also strengthen your case if you are thinking about pursuing compensation.
Why seeking legal advice is necessary
Going through abuse—no matter what form— and legal procedures are both traumatic and overwhelming. Why go through it alone when there is someone who can help? An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you get all the protection you need.
