Violation of Protective Order in Maryland
Updated for 2025
What counts as a violation
When a protective order is active, the court’s terms are not suggestions. A violation happens when a person fails to follow the relief granted in an interim, temporary, or final protective order. Examples include contacting the other party, going to a restricted location, keeping firearms when surrender is required, or ignoring no‑abuse terms.
Penalties at a glance
- First offense: up to 90 days in jail and up to a $1,000 fine
- Second or later offense: up to 1 year in jail and up to a $2,500 fine
- A conviction for violating a protective order does not merge into other crimes from the same incident. A judge may impose a separate, consecutive, or concurrent sentence.
- For repeat‑offender status, a prior conviction for violating a peace order counts as a prior for protective‑order penalties.
Arrest authority
Police may arrest with or without a warrant when they have probable cause to believe a violation occurred while a protective order was in effect.
Common situations that create risk
- “Mutual contact” after an order is issued. Only the court can change an order. If the other person reaches out, do not respond unless the order clearly allows it.
- Indirect contact, like messages through friends, family, or social media.
- Brief appearances at restricted places, including work, school, or a shared home.
- Possessing firearms when an order requires surrender.
What to do if accused
- Read the order line by line and follow every term.
- Save messages, call logs, and screenshots. Make a list of witnesses and locations.
- Do not communicate with the other party unless your order allows it in plain terms.
- Speak with a lawyer before making statements to police or testifying in court.
How a lawyer helps
- Reviews whether conduct matched the order’s wording
- Challenges proof of identity, timing, or location
- Addresses intent and clarity of the order terms
- Works on release conditions and a fast strategy to limit damage
Related resources
Need help today? Contact us for a free consultation. We will review the order, explain likely outcomes, and build a plan to protect your record and freedom.