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

• Protective orders
• Peace orders
• Protective vs Peace Order: Quick Guide
• Recent arrest

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.