restraining order lawyer Prince George’s County, MD
You open your front door to a deputy sheriff who hands you a packet of papers. You read the top line: Temporary Protective Order. It says you must stay away from your home, avoid contact with your spouse, and appear in court in less than a week. The paper names Prince George’s County District Court. You have never been through anything like this. The order stems from a family dispute, an argument that escalated, and now the court has restricted your rights before you have told your side. A restraining order—often called a protective order under Maryland law—can immediately change where you live, whether you see your children, and what you are permitted to do. If you have been served with such an order or need to seek protection yourself, an experienced attorney can help you understand the process and prepare for the hearing. Our legal team, including Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, represents individuals in protective order proceedings in Prince George’s County, Maryland. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What a Restraining Order Means in Prince George’s County
Maryland’s protective order statute is codified at et seq. A protective order prohibits contact, requires a respondent to vacate a shared residence, awards temporary custody of minor children, and may order the surrender of firearms. In Prince George’s County, petitions are filed with the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County, located at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. The court serves communities from Upper Marlboro to Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. A person who alleges they are a victim of domestic abuse, stalking, or certain criminal offenses may file a petition seeking protection. The court reviews the petition without the other party present for an interim order; if granted, a temporary ex parte order issues and a final hearing is scheduled within seven days. Both petitioner and respondent have the right to appear, present evidence, and be represented by counsel at that hearing.
The stakes at a protective order hearing are significant. A final protective order can last up to a year and be extended. A finding that abuse occurred is entered into the Maryland Judiciary Case Search and may affect employment, security clearances, child custody, and firearm rights. Because these proceedings are civil, not criminal, the burden of proof is a preponderance of the evidence—a lower standard than guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, yet the consequences are serious. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in Prince George’s County District Court and understand the local procedures that govern these hearings.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Restraining Order Cases
Protective order hearings move quickly, so preparation begins immediately. When a client is served with a temporary order, the first step is to review the petition, identify the allegations, and gather responsive evidence—text messages, emails, witness statements, and any prior court filings. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys then prepare the client for the hearing, explaining what the court will consider and what each side must prove. Because a protective order is a civil matter, the party requesting protection must establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the alleged act of abuse occurred and falls within the statutory definition.
For those seeking protection, the process is similar: the attorney helps the petitioner articulate the facts, identify witnesses, and present a coherent narrative. Whether seeking or opposing a protective order, parties should expect that the court will inquire about the relationship between the parties, the incident(s) alleged, and any history of conflict. The court may also consider whether there are pending divorce, custody, or criminal matters. Because the hearing is recorded and the outcome can shape related cases, it is important to present a well-organized case. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, drawing on extensive trial experience, prepare clients to testify clearly and to respond to cross-examination. The firm appears in the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County and handles matters from ex parte review through the final hearing, and, if needed, an appeal to the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., a multi-state firm that has practiced since 1997. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris brings insight into how the opposing side builds its case. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced litigators who concentrate in family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation. They appear regularly in Maryland district and circuit courts, including Prince George’s County, and work closely with Mr. Sris to prepare each protective order hearing. Collectively, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have represented clients in matters ranging from divorce and custody to domestic violence and civil protective orders. The firm serves clients throughout Maryland from its Rockville location, including Prince George’s County, and can be reached at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a restraining order and a protective order in Maryland?
Maryland law uses the term “protective order” for relief issued under the Family Law Article, while a “peace order” addresses conduct between individuals who do not have a qualifying relationship. A protective order requires a qualifying relationship: current or former spouse, cohabitant, relative by blood or marriage, or a parent of a child in common. A peace order applies to others, such as neighbors or strangers. Both are civil orders that can restrict contact and impose conditions. An experienced attorney can assess which type of order applies to your situation.
How do I get a protective order in Prince George’s County?
File a petition with the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County at 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, during normal court business hours. A commissioner is available when the court is closed for emergency interim orders. The petitioner completes a form describing the relationship and the incident. The court reviews the petition and may issue a temporary ex parte order. A hearing is then scheduled within seven days. Representation is permitted, and you may bring witnesses and documents. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss the process before you file.
What should I do if someone has filed a protective order against me?
Read the order carefully and immediately begin preparing for the final hearing. The temporary order lists the allegations and the hearing date. Do not violate the order’s terms—even if you believe they are unfair—as a violation could lead to criminal contempt charges. Gather evidence that refutes the allegations: electronic communications, photographs, and witness contact information. Because the hearing occurs quickly, contact an attorney without delay. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys can help you present your side of the story at the Prince George’s County District Court. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
How does a protective order affect child custody?
A protective order can grant temporary custody of minor children to the petitioner and may restrict the respondent’s access until a custody order is entered in a separate family law case. The court considers the best interests of the child. If divorce or custody litigation is pending, the protective order’s custody provision remains in effect until modified. Because custody determinations are fact-specific, it is important to have counsel present at the protective order hearing to protect your parental rights. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a protective order hearing?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but the stakes of a protective order hearing make legal representation advisable. The order can affect your residence, contact with children, firearms rights, and future employment. Representing yourself while emotional and under the pressure of a courtroom setting is difficult. An experienced attorney can cross-examine the other party, object to improper evidence, and present your case in the most favorable light. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.