Category Archives: Domestic Violence
Protective Orders for Victims of Domestic Violence in Maryland
A protective order is a legal device available to the Maryland state courts in cases of domestic violence. These orders can help stop ongoing abuse and guard against future harm. But unlike peace orders, which are available to most abused victims, protective orders are restricted to situations where the abuser and victim are related…. Read More »
What are Protective Orders Under Maryland Family Law?
Protective orders are legal devices in Maryland that allow the state courts to protect victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Unlike peace orders, protective orders are only available to victims who are connected to the abuser in some fashion. For example, protective orders are available to victims who suffered abuse from… Read More »
Local Domestic Violence Fatality Review Teams in Maryland
Recognizing the risk of death inherent with domestic violence cases, the Maryland General Assembly created the Local Domestic Violence Fatality Review Teams (“Local Teams”). These multidisciplinary and multiagency teams exist on a county level throughout the state to ensure that the worst domestic violence cases receive comprehensive review and treatment. Purpose of Local Teams… Read More »
What Happens When Domestic Violence Victims Seek Help in Maryland?
Under Maryland family law, domestic violence is a criminal offense that only occurs when the abuser and the victim are related to each other. When a person becomes a victim of domestic violence, Maryland law requires law enforcement to protect the victim and provide assistance in various other ways. Who Qualifies as a Domestic… Read More »
Reporting Rules for 3 Types of Child Abuse & Neglect in Maryland
Not every case of child abuse or neglect is readily apparent. Sometimes there are no signs of injury or hunger or poor hygiene. Sometimes children are placed in situations where the danger to them is less visible, but still quite real. Accordingly, Maryland law provides specific reporting rules for individuals who observe or suspect… Read More »
The Maryland Program for Victims of Domestic Violence
The State of Maryland recognizes the uniquely dangerous situation that confronts victims of domestic violence. As these victims have a close relationship with their abuser, it can be difficult to break away and seek help. To address this problem, the Maryland General Assembly created a program for victims of domestic violence. Among its many… Read More »
Domestic Violence & Child Abuse or Neglect in Maryland
Domestic violence laws in Maryland provide special considerations for child victims of abuse or neglect. In these unfortunate situations, state law requires mandatory reporting of suspected abuse or neglect. This allows state agencies to act swiftly to protect at-risk children. When there is any indication of harm or injury to a child, extraordinary measures… Read More »
When Does Assault Become Domestic Violence Under Maryland Law?
Domestic violence in Maryland represents the intersection of criminal and family law. That is because domestic violence only occurs between family or household members who share a certain type of relationship. Furthermore, domestic violence incorporates many types of criminal offenses, including various assault crimes. What are the Maryland Laws Governing Assault? Maryland law provides… Read More »
4 FAQs on Protective Orders for Maryland Domestic Violence Victims
A protective order is a tool available to the Maryland state courts to help safeguard victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. When granted, these orders can prevent the perpetrator from contacting the victim and even grant possession of a shared residence. That being said, protective orders are not appropriate in every… Read More »
What is the Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository?
The Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository (“Central Repository”) exists to collect and aggregate data concerning domestic violence or abuse. Managed by the Administrative Office of the Maryland Courts, the Central Repository stores various records of protective and peace orders. This provides greater visibility into domestic violence offenses and enables state actors to better handle… Read More »
