restraining order lawyer Anne Arundel County, MD
When a family or household member seeks a court order that restricts your contact, your home, or your time with your children, the situation is urgent and the consequences can be lasting. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, in matters involving protective orders—often called restraining orders. Our attorneys work to protect your rights at every stage, from temporary ex parte hearings to final protective order trials. If you need a restraining order lawyer in Anne Arundel County, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Restraining Orders / Protective Orders Mean in Anne Arundel County
In Maryland, the civil orders that limit contact between family members, household members, or intimate partners are formally called protective orders. They are governed by the Family Law Article of the Maryland Code. A protective order can require the respondent to stay away from the petitioner’s residence, school, or workplace, vacate a shared home, surrender firearms, and address temporary custody and support. The Anne Arundel County courts—the District Court and the Circuit Court—both handle these cases, often with an initial hearing in the District Court.
Anne Arundel County includes Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, and many other communities. The District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County sits at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. Our firm regularly appears before both the District Court and the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, which hears final protective order hearings and related family law matters such as divorce and custody. When you are facing a protective order, understanding the procedural landscape is essential. A temporary order can be issued without the respondent present based solely on the petitioner’s allegations, making the full hearing a critical moment to present your side.
Protective orders in Maryland differ from peace orders, which apply to non-family relationships. Because the stakes involve custody, possession of the home, and a potential impact on employment and firearm rights, having an experienced attorney is important. Our firm has handled family law matters across Maryland for years, and we understand how local courts in Anne Arundel County approach these sensitive cases.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Restraining Order Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. approaches each protective order matter with a clear focus on the immediate needs and long-term consequences. We review the petition’s allegations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare for the hearing. Whether you are the petitioner seeking protection or the respondent defending against an order, we work to present a thorough, fact-based case.
Because protective orders often intersect with divorce, child custody, and criminal charges, our attorneys coordinate across practice areas to address overlapping legal issues. We appear in both District Court for initial hearings and Circuit Court for final protective order trials and any related family law proceedings. Throughout, we keep you informed about procedural steps and the potential outcomes, so you can make decisions with a complete understanding of your position.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Our goal is to achieve a resolution that protects your rights and minimizes disruption to your life.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris concentrates his practice on family law matters, including protective orders, divorce, and custody.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include professionals with significant family law and litigation backgrounds. Together, the team represents clients in Anne Arundel County courts. When you contact us, you benefit from the collective knowledge of a multi-state firm that has handled thousands of family law cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a protective order and a peace order in Maryland?
A protective order is available for family members, household members, or intimate partners, while a peace order applies to other relationships such as neighbors, coworkers, or strangers. The eligibility and remedies differ. Protective orders can award temporary child custody, vacate the respondent from the home, and require surrender of firearms. Peace orders offer limited relief. Both are filed in the District Court, and violations can lead to criminal charges. An experienced family law attorney can help you determine which order applies to your situation and represent you at the hearing.
How do I get a restraining order in Anne Arundel County?
You may file a petition for a protective order at the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County during business hours or seek an interim order from a District Court commissioner after hours. The petition requires a sworn statement describing the abuse, threats, or harassment, and the relationship between the parties. A judge will review the petition and may issue a temporary order if there is evidence of immediate danger. A full hearing is usually scheduled within seven days if a temporary order is granted. Having legal guidance through this process helps ensure your safety and procedural fairness.
Can I defend against a protective order if I did nothing wrong?
Yes, you have the right to contest the allegations at the final hearing, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence in your defense. Because temporary orders are issued without the respondent present, the final hearing is your opportunity to challenge the petitioner’s claims. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, subpoena witnesses, and prepare a defense. The consequences of a final protective order can include losing your right to possess firearms and restrictions on contact with your children, making a thorough defense crucial.
Does a restraining order affect child custody in Anne Arundel County?
Yes, a protective order can include temporary custody provisions and visitation arrangements, and the existence of an order may be considered in a subsequent custody case. The order can decide which parent has temporary custody and when the children see each parent. If a divorce or custody case is already pending, the protective order may be heard by the Circuit Court family division. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Addresses both the protective order and the related custody issues to protect your parental rights. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What happens if a protective order is violated in Maryland?
Violating a protective order is a criminal offense, and the police can arrest the respondent immediately. Consequences may include jail time, fines, and additional restrictions. If you are accused of violating an order, you need experienced legal representation to address both the criminal charge and the underlying civil case. If you are the protected person and the order is violated, you can contact law enforcement and the court may extend or strengthen the order.
Do I need a lawyer for a restraining order case in Anne Arundel County?
While you are not required to have a lawyer, the stakes—involving your home, custody, and personal record—make legal representation highly advisable. An attorney can ensure that the petition or defense is properly presented, that evidence is admissible, and that your rights are protected at the hearing. The Anne Arundel County courts expect parties to follow procedural rules, and mistakes can affect the outcome. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Related areas we serve: Family law lawyer Montgomery County · Prince George’s County · Howard County · Frederick County · Baltimore County
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.