Protective Order Violation Lawyer Montgomery County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A protective order violation in Montgomery County is a serious criminal charge under Md. Code, Family Law Article § 4-509, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of violating a protective order.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding Protective Order Violation Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, a protective order (also called a restraining order) is a court order designed to protect a person from abuse. Violating any term of that order is a separate criminal offense. The statute governing these violations is Md. Code, Family Law Article § 4-509. A conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and family law matters. The prosecution must prove you knowingly violated a valid, served protective order.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Md. Code, Family Law Article § 4-509. Court procedures for Montgomery County cases are handled at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County.
Local Court Process for a PO Violation Charge Lawyer Montgomery County
Cases for violating a protective order in Montgomery County begin at the District Court located at 191 East Jefferson Street in Rockville. The process typically involves an initial appearance, arraignment, and potential trial. Prosecutors from the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office must prove you had knowledge of the order’s terms and intentionally violated them. Common alleged violations include unauthorized contact, appearing at a prohibited location, or possessing a firearm.
- Receive a summons or be arrested on the violation charge.
- Attend your initial appearance/arraignment at District Court in Rockville.
- Your attorney will review the charging documents and the underlying protective order for defects.
- We will investigate the allegations, gather evidence, and interview witnesses.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss.
- Represent you at all court hearings, aiming for dismissal, acquittal, or a reduced disposition.
Potential Penalties for Violating a Protective Order
In Montgomery County, a first-time protective order violation is a misdemeanor with a penalty of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine; subsequent violations carry up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Violation | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Subsequent Violation | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $2,500 | Enhanced penalties, longer probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that an accusation of violating a protective order defense lawyer Montgomery County needs can be complex, involving intertwined criminal and family law issues. Our approach is thorough and case-specific.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes. In Montgomery County, we have achieved 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Protective Order Violation Lawyer Near Montgomery County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients at the Montgomery County courts in Rockville. We represent individuals in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a protective order violation in Maryland?
It is a criminal charge for disobeying any term of a valid court-issued protective order, such as making contact or going to a forbidden location, under Md. Code, Family Law Article § 4-509.
What are the penalties for a first-time violation?
A first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The court may also impose probation.
Can I go to jail for accidentally violating a protective order?
The prosecution must prove you knowingly violated the order. An experienced protective order violation lawyer Montgomery County can argue lack of intent or knowledge as a defense.
What should I do if I’m charged with a PO violation?
Do not contact the protected party. Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney who handles PO violation charges in Montgomery County.
Can a violation charge be dropped or dismissed?
Yes, possible defenses include lack of proper service of the original order, mistaken identity, lack of intent, or insufficient evidence. An attorney can file motions seeking dismissal.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince George’s County. If you are dealing with related family law issues, consider our Montgomery County family law attorneys.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.