How to Obtain a No-Contact Order in Maryland

Step-by-Step Legal Process

A Protective Order (Maryland's term for no-contact order) is available for victims of domestic violence, stalking, harassment, or sexual assault.

1. Determine Eligibility

You must be a "person eligible for relief": current/former spouse, cohabitant, relative by blood/marriage/adoption, parent of shared child, or vulnerable adult. For others, a Peace Order may apply.

2. File a Petition

Go to the District Court in your county (or where abuse occurred). Complete form CC-DC-PO-001 (Protective Order) or CC-DC-PO-002 (Peace Order). Include:

• Your info & respondent's info
• Specific acts with dates/locations
• Requested relief (no contact, stay away, custody, support, etc.)

3. Temporary Order (Ex Parte)

A judge may issue a Temporary Protective Order same day (without respondent present) if immediate danger is shown. Lasts ~7 days until hearing.

4. Service of Process

Sheriff or private process server delivers petition + temporary order to respondent. You cannot serve it yourself.

5. Final Hearing

Usually within 7 days. Both parties testify. Judge decides on Final Protective Order (up to 1 year, renewable).

6. Enforcement

Violation = criminal misdemeanor (up to 90 days jail/$1,000 fine). Call 911. Keep copies everywhere.

Resources

• Maryland Courts Self-Help Center: mdcourts.gov/legalhelp
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)