Prince George’s County Restraining Order Lawyer — What Are Your Legal Options?
If you are facing a domestic violence situation in Prince George’s County, a restraining order lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can provide urgent legal protection. Maryland law offers protective orders and peace orders to stop abuse and harassment. Our firm has extensive experience handling these sensitive cases at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
Understanding Protective Orders and Peace Orders in Maryland
In Maryland, a “restraining order” is formally known as either a Protective Order (for domestic violence situations) or a Peace Order (for non-domestic relationships). The legal authority for these orders is found in the Maryland Code, Family Law Article, Title 4 (Protective Orders) and Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, Title 3, Subtitle 15 (Peace Orders). A Protective Order is available if you have a specific domestic relationship with the abuser, such as a current or former spouse, cohabitant, or someone with whom you share a child. A Peace Order applies to other relationships, like neighbors, acquaintances, or strangers.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review the Maryland state statutes online. For court forms and procedures, visit the Prince George’s County District Court website.
Prince George’s County Court Procedures for Protective Orders
In Prince George’s County, the process for obtaining a protective order petition starts at the District Court in Upper Marlboro. The court is located at 14735 Main Street. You can file for an Interim Protective Order (available 24/7 through a commissioner), a Temporary Protective Order (lasting up to 7 days), and finally, a Final Protective Order, which can last up to one year or be made permanent. The court takes these filings seriously and will schedule a prompt hearing.
- File the Petition: Go to the District Court Commissioner’s office in Upper Marlboro to file for an Interim Protective Order. You will complete forms detailing the abuse.
- Temporary Order Hearing: A judge will review your petition, usually on the same day, to decide if a Temporary Protective Order should be issued pending a full hearing.
- Serve the Respondent: The respondent (the person you are filing against) must be formally served with the Temporary Order and notice of the final hearing.
- Final Protective Order Hearing: Attend the final hearing, typically within 7 days. Both sides can present evidence and testimony. A lawyer can cross-examine the other party and argue on your behalf.
- Court’s Decision: The judge will decide whether to issue a Final Protective Order, which can include provisions for no contact, custody, and use of a home.
- Enforcement: If the respondent violates the order, contact police immediately and file a petition for contempt with the court.
Consequences of a Protective Order in Prince George’s County
In Prince George’s County, a Final Protective Order can legally forbid contact, grant temporary custody, and award use of a shared residence. Violation is a criminal contempt charge, punishable by jail time and fines.
| Order Type | Relationship Required | Duration | Potential Provisions | Violation Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interim Protective Order | Domestic | Until next business day | Emergency no-contact | Contempt of Court |
| Temporary Protective Order | Domestic | Up to 7 days | No contact, custody, vacate home | Contempt of Court |
| Final Protective Order | Domestic | Up to 1 year (can be extended) | All above + counseling, support | Criminal contempt, jail, fines |
| Peace Order | Non-domestic | Up to 6 months | No contact, cease harassment | Contempt of Court, fines |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Protective Order Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the fear and urgency involved in seeking a protective order. Our approach is focused on your immediate safety and building a strong legal case from the start. We have a documented record of helping clients in Prince George’s County handle the court system to obtain the legal protections they need.
Our Experience with Family Law and Protective Orders
Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. While every protective order case is unique, our extensive litigation experience in family and domestic relations courts allows us to provide assertive representation, whether you are seeking an order or defending against one. For instance, our team, including Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, brings direct insight into how these cases are presented and evaluated in Maryland courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Prince George’s County Restraining Order Lawyer Near Me
Our Maryland location serves clients in Prince George’s County. We are accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and Route 4, near landmarks like National Harbor and FedExField. We serve communities including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Protective Orders in Prince George’s County
What is the difference between a protective order and a peace order in Maryland?
It depends on your relationship to the other person. A protective order is for domestic relationships (spouse, ex, cohabitant, relative). A peace order is for non-domestic situations (neighbor, acquaintance, stranger). The filing procedures and available remedies differ under Maryland law.
How long does it take to get a protective order in Prince George’s County?
You can get an Interim Protective Order immediately from a commissioner. A Temporary Order is typically granted the same day you file. A final hearing for a long-term Protective Order is usually held within 7 days of filing the temporary petition.
Can I get a protective order if I have no physical proof of abuse?
Yes. Your detailed testimony about threats, harassment, or past abuse can be sufficient evidence for a judge to grant an order. Witness statements, police reports, texts, or emails can also support your petition for a protective order.
What happens if someone violates a protective order in Maryland?
Violating a protective order is a serious offense. The respondent can be arrested and charged with criminal contempt, which can result in jail time and significant fines. You should call the police immediately to report any violation.
Do I need a lawyer to file a protective order petition in Prince George’s County?
No, you can file without a lawyer. However, having a restraining order lawyer can be critical, especially for the final hearing. An attorney can ensure your petition is properly completed, help you present evidence, and advocate for the protections you need.
Can a protective order affect child custody in Maryland?
Yes. A judge granting a Final Protective Order can issue temporary custody and visitation orders. Findings of domestic violence can significantly impact future custody decisions in a separate divorce or custody case under Maryland’s “best interests of the child” standard.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Maryland Family Law hub page, our services for Criminal Defense in Prince George’s County, or learn about our Maryland office location.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.