Domestic Violence

Maryland & Virginia Domestic Violence Attorney

Immediate Protection and Compassionate Support for Survivors of Abuse

No one should live in fear of harm from someone they love or trust. If you or your children are experiencing domestic violence, you have the right to seek safety and legal protection right away. At The Burton Firm, our dedicated Maryland domestic violence attorney helps survivors obtain protective orders, secure emergency relief, and begin the process of healing and rebuilding.

We provide urgent, confidential assistance to individuals and families throughout Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland, including Fairfax County, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Charles County, and Calvert County. Your safety is our top priority — we act quickly to help you take the first steps toward protection.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence includes a pattern of abusive behavior used to control or harm a current or former spouse, partner, family member, or household member. It can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse (hitting, pushing, choking, or any harmful contact)
• Emotional or psychological abuse (threats, intimidation, isolation)
• Sexual abuse or coercion
• Financial abuse (controlling money or preventing access to resources)
• Stalking or harassment

Maryland law provides strong protections for victims, and our firm helps you document the abuse and present clear evidence to the court.

Maryland Protective Orders

Maryland law recognizes three main types of protective orders that vary by urgency and duration. An interim protective order can be issued immediately by a District Court commissioner when courts are closed, offering short-term protection until a judge is available. A temporary protective order may then be granted during court hours, often after an ex parte (one-sided) hearing, and remains in effect until a final hearing. At the final protective order hearing, both parties can present evidence and testimony; if the judge finds abuse has occurred by a preponderance of the evidence, a final protective order may be issued, typically lasting up to one year and, in certain cases, up to two years or longer with extensions .

Protective orders may include a range of protections tailored to the petitioner’s needs. Common provisions prohibit the respondent from abusing, contacting, threatening, or harassing the petitioner; staying away from the petitioner’s home, work, or school; and, in appropriate cases, requiring the respondent to vacate a shared residence. A final order can also address temporary child custody and visitation, emergency family maintenance, possession of vehicles, surrender of firearms, and professionally supervised counseling, among other safety-focused remedies

Virginia Protective Orders

Virginia law provides civil protective orders to protect individuals from domestic violence, abuse, threats, and harassment. These orders are designed to prevent further harm and provide immediate safety and practical relief. Virginia does not use “peace orders” as a separate legal remedy, but instead offers protective orders based on the relationship between the parties.

Protective orders involving family or household members apply to spouses, former spouses, parents, children, relatives, individuals who share a child, and current or recent cohabitants, including romantic partners. When the parties do not qualify as family or household members, protection may still be available for acts of violence, force, or threats, regardless of the relationship.

Virginia uses a three-tier system of emergency, preliminary, and permanent protective orders. Emergency orders provide immediate, short-term protection. Preliminary orders are issued quickly without the other party present and remain in effect until a court hearing. Permanent protective orders are issued after a full hearing and may last up to two years, or longer in certain repeat-offender cases.

Defending Against False Allegations

In some cases, claims of domestic violence are exaggerated or fabricated during heated family disputes. Wrongful accusations can have severe consequences. We provide strong, respectful defense for individuals facing unfounded allegations, ensuring due process and protecting parental and personal rights.

Speak with a Maryland or Virginia Domestic Violence Attorney Today

You deserve to feel safe in your own home and life. If you are experiencing domestic violence or need help obtaining protection, The Burton Firm is here for you — day or night. Call (301) 420-5540 for immediate, confidential assistance.