What Should I Do if Someone Files for a Protective Order Against Me?

 Posted on September 24, 2026 in Peace/Protective Orders

Finding out that someone has filed for a protective order against you can be alarming, especially if you’re not aware of having done anything wrong. Even if you haven’t done anything to warrant it, it’s important to follow the terms of the protective order to avoid getting into bigger legal trouble. A Northern Baltimore County, MD criminal defense lawyer can clarify how you should proceed in your 2026 case to minimize the impact of a protective order on your long-term rights.

What Happens When Someone Files a Protective Order Against You in Maryland?

The immediate results of a protective order being filed depend on the kind of order it is.

Interim Protective Orders

These orders are only good for a few days or until a judge can hold a hearing for a temporary protective order. They can be issued very quickly and without you being present to present evidence. A District Court Commissioner issues these orders rather than a judge.

Temporary Protective Orders

A temporary order is issued at a hearing by a judge. As of October 1, 2026, a temporary protective order can last up to 14 days after it is issued, though a judge can extend it in some cases. You are not required to be present at the hearing for the order to be valid.

Final Protective Orders

Final protective orders generally last up to one year, though some can last longer. Before a final protective order is issued, you have the right to a hearing and a chance to present your side. Under Maryland Family Law Section 4-506, starting October 1, 2026, the final protective order hearing generally must be held within 14 days after the temporary protective order is issued, unless it is delayed for a good reason.

Petitioners for protection orders are often a spouse, a relative, someone you’ve dated, someone you share a child with, or someone you’ve lived with, though some others may also petition. The order can tell you to stop contacting the petitioner or stay away from their home or job. It may also require you to move out of a home you share, or to turn in any firearms you own (Maryland Family Law Section 4-506).

What Should You Do Right After Being Served With a Protective Order?

Read the order carefully and be sure to follow every term, even ones you disagree with. Don’t go to the petitioner’s home, job, or any location the order names.

Avoid contacting the petitioner in any way. This can include directly, through friends, or on social media. Even a friendly text or message carried by a mutual friend can count as contact. If the petitioner reaches out to you first, don’t respond. Save the message and tell your attorney instead.

Write down dates, times, and details of your interactions with the petitioner as clearly as you can so you remember what happened. Find a criminal defense attorney and share anything you think will help your case with them. This can include old conversations with the petitioner, location information that proves where you were, or witness statements from people who were with you at certain times.

Can Violating a Protective Order Lead to Other Criminal Charges in Maryland?

Violating the terms of a protective order is its own criminal offense in Maryland. A first violation can mean up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Even something that seems minor, sending the petitioner a text or asking a friend to pass along a message, can count as a violation if it goes against the order’s terms. Repeat violations carry higher penalties.

Some petitions are also connected to a harassment charge under Maryland Criminal Law Section 3-803. This law covers certain conduct meant to harass, alarm, or seriously annoy someone after they have been warned or asked to stop. If behavior qualifies, charges may also be made for harassment.

Call a Harford County, MD Harassment Defense Lawyer Today

A protective order can affect many aspects of your life, sometimes for months at a time. Carefully following the terms protects you from further charges, and getting legal help early gives you more time to prepare for your hearing.

Our Northern Baltimore County, MD criminal defense attorney has helped over 10,000 clients and brings more than 15 years of experience to protective order cases. We offer custom flat fees and are available 24/7.

Call Baltimore Legal Services at 858-523-8423 for a free consultation.