Peace and Protective Orders are civil orders issued by a judge that order one person to refrain from committing certain acts against others. The relationship between the Respondent (person alleged to have committed the prohibited act) and the Petitioner (person seeking protection) determines the petition to be filed. Protective Orders generally apply to people in domestic relationships; Peace Orders apply to other persons. You cannot qualify for both.
The District Court provides a brochure to assist you in determining the correct petition to file.
How to File?
During normal business hours, the petition can be filed at either the District Court or the Circuit Court for Protective Orders. Petitions for Peace Orders can only be filed at the District Court.
When the courts are closed, a District Court Commissioner can issue Interim Peace and Protective Orders until a judge holds a temporary hearing. If the District Court Commissioner is not working, citizens can contact the Sheriff's Office at 410-535-2800 to reach a Commissioner.
Violations of Peace and Protective Orders
A violation of an order may result in a finding of contempt, and/or mandatory arrest and criminal prosecution. Contact the Sheriff's Office for additional information.
Extreme Risk Protective Orders
Extreme Risk Protective Orders are civil orders issued by a judge that order one person to surrender firearms and/or ammunition to law enforcement, and not purchase or possess firearms or ammunition. With reasonable belief that a person meets the requirements, an ERPO allows the court to refer someone for an emergency evaluation due to mental disorder.
The District Court provides a brochure with information to assist you in determining if you are eligible to file for an ERPO.
How to File?
The petition can only be filed at District Court. When the court is closed, a District Court Commissioner can issue an Interim ERPO until a judge holds a temporary hearing. If the District Court Commissioner is not working, citizens can contact the Sheriff’s Office at 410-535-2800 to reach a Commissioner.
Violations of Extreme Risk Protective Orders
Violating an order is a crime that may result in a finding of contempt, arrest, criminal prosecution, imprisonment, and/or fine. Contact the Sheriff’s Office for additional information.
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