Annapolis Domestic Violence Attorney

Helping You File for a Restraining Order in MD

When you are in a marriage or relationship and are being emotionally, physically, or sexually abused, you should contact the local authorities and a professional Maryland domestic violence lawyer immediately.

At the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis, we help victims of domestic violence by safeguarding their legal rights and their well-being.

Find out how a domestic abuse attorney can help you feel safe at home again. Contact us today for a consultation online or by calling (410) 593-0040.

Get a Protective Order in Maryland to Stop Abuse

Cruelty is legal grounds for divorce in the state of Maryland and is not tolerated well by law enforcement. The very first thing that a skilled Annapolis domestic violence lawyer can obtain on a victim’s behalf is an order of protection.

Orders of protection prohibit the abuser from coming near you under penalty of law. They will be required to move out of your house (if they currently live with you) and stay a specific distance away from you, your children, and your family, including your home and your place of employment.

Please contact the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis today if you or a loved one is the victim of domestic abuse. We offer a free initial consultation and have provided excellent legal representation for over 25 years. We also have many legal resources available to us that can help victims of domestic violence by providing shelter, food, clothing, counseling, medical care and much more.

Types of Protective Orders in Maryland

Protective orders are court-issued orders designed to protect individuals from further harm or harassment by an alleged abuser. Maryland law recognizes three types of protective orders:

1. Interim Protective Orders: Issued by a District Court commissioner when the court is closed. These orders provide immediate, temporary protection until a judge can review the case.
2. Temporary Protective Orders: These orders are issued by a judge after an initial hearing and typically last up to seven days, with the possibility of extension until a final protective order hearing.
3. Final Protective Orders: Issued after a full hearing, these orders can last up to one year, with the possibility of extension under certain circumstances.

Protective orders can include various provisions, such as requiring the alleged abuser to vacate a shared residence, granting temporary custody of children to the victim, prohibiting contact or communication with the victim, and requiring the accused to attend counseling or treatment programs.

An Annapolis domestic violence attorney can assist individuals in filing for protective orders, representing them in hearings, and ensuring their rights are fully protected throughout the process.

Steps to Take If You Are a Victim of Domestic Violence

If you are a victim of domestic violence, taking immediate action to protect yourself and your loved ones is crucial. Steps to consider include:

1. Seek Safety: Remove yourself and your children from the dangerous environment if possible. Consider staying with a trusted friend or family member or contacting a local domestic violence shelter for assistance.
2. Obtain a Protective Order: A protective order can provide immediate legal protection. An Annapolis domestic violence lawyer can guide you through the process of obtaining one.
3. Document the Abuse: Keep detailed records of incidents of abuse, including dates, times, and descriptions of what occurred. Photographs, medical records, and communication records can also be valuable evidence.
4. Report the Abuse: File a report with local law enforcement to document the abuse and initiate a criminal investigation if necessary.

An attorney can provide additional support and resources to help victims secure their safety and legal rights.

Impact of Domestic Violence on Family Law Cases

Domestic violence can have far-reaching implications in family law matters, particularly in cases involving divorce, child custody, and visitation.

• Divorce: Maryland recognizes both fault-based and no-fault grounds for divorce. Domestic violence may be cited as a fault-based ground under claims of cruelty or excessively vicious conduct. When domestic violence is present, it can influence the division of marital property, alimony determinations, and even the timeline of the divorce process.
• Child Custody: Child custody decisions in Maryland are made based on the best interests of the child. Courts will consider evidence of abuse when determining whether a parent poses a risk to the child or the other parent. In cases where domestic violence has occurred, the court may grant sole custody to the non-abusive parent, limit or supervise visitation for the accused, or require the abuser to complete counseling or anger management programs.

Understanding Your Legal Options for Domestic Abuse Cases

Domestic abuse cases can be complex and emotionally challenging. It's important to know your legal rights and options when dealing with such sensitive matters. Our experienced Annapolis, MD attorneys at the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis are here to help guide you through the process and provide the support you need.

Our legal services for domestic abuse cases include:

• Assistance with filing for a restraining order
• Representation in court hearings for protective orders
• Legal advice on navigating the legal process
• Advocacy for victims of domestic abuse

Whether you are seeking protection from an abusive partner or need legal representation in a domestic abuse case, our team is dedicated to helping you understand your rights and options. today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a safer future.

False Allegations of Domestic Violence

False allegations of domestic violence can have devastating consequences, both personally and legally. While domestic violence is a serious issue that requires immediate attention and protection, wrongful accusations can harm the reputation, relationships, and livelihood of the accused. These false claims often arise in contentious family law matters, such as divorce or child custody disputes, where one party may seek an advantage by making unfounded accusations of abuse.

Being wrongfully accused of domestic violence can lead to criminal charges, protective orders, loss of custody or visitation rights, and damage to professional and social standing. If you are facing false allegations, it is essential to take these claims seriously and seek legal representation from a qualified Annapolis domestic violence attorney.

Need a Domestic Abuse Lawyer in Annapolis, MD?

No one deserves to be the victim of any type of abuse during their lifetime. If you or your child is the victim of abuse in or outside of a marriage, this is your chance to get back on your feet, protect yourself, and your children, and safeguard your future. 

In addition to helping victims of domestic violence, the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis also can help those who are wrongly accused of domestic violence in Maryland. False allegations normally come about in many divorce and child custody cases. A skilled Maryland domestic violence attorney at our firm can investigate to clear a client’s name when they are wrongly accused of domestic violence by a spouse for physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, marital rape, assault and kidnapping.

Are you or a loved one the victim of domestic violence in Maryland? Contact us today at (410) 593-0040!