Domestic violence — still far too common in Maryland and across the country — is about one person’s attempt to maintain or gain control over another through abusive or violent conduct, which can take many forms including physical abuse, sexual abuse, cyberstalking, emotional abuse, threatening behavior, and economic abuse.

Domestic violence—whether physical, emotional, or financial—can deeply impact victims for life, affecting relationships beyond just spouses, and may require legal steps such as restraining orders or civil actions for protection; at the same time, those falsely accused face serious challenges in clearing their name and restoring their lives.

Protective orders in Maryland are court-issued measures designed to safeguard victims of domestic violence by restricting an abuser’s contact and actions, with temporary orders offering immediate protection such as no-contact provisions and removal from a shared home, and final orders extending those protections while potentially adding custody arrangements, financial support, counseling requirements, and other safety measures.