What Happens if I Violate a Temporary Restraining Order After Being Charged with Domestic Violence?

 Posted on August 23, 2026 in English

When someone files a petition for protection from domestic violence, the court may issue a temporary restraining order for them right away. This can be done before a trial happens.

Even if you did not actually commit a crime, it’s very important to obey this order. Violating a restraining order can be charged as a crime in Maryland. Penalties can result in jail time or fines. It can also appear on your criminal record if charges are not dropped.

If you have been charged with domestic violence in 2026 and are wondering what you should do next, a Prince George’s County, MD criminal defense attorney can help you.

What Does a Temporary Protective Order Do in Maryland?

Restraining orders are usually called "protective orders" in Maryland. A temporary protective order can be issued right after someone asks for it without having a trial for you to defend yourself first.

A temporary order usually lasts up to two weeks. It can tell you to stay away from someone’s home, job, or school. It may say you can’t call, text, email, or message them. It may order you to move out of your home if the other person also lives there. These terms apply even if you believe the petition isn’t true.

A judge issuing a temporary protective order does not mean they’ve decided you’re guilty. It means the court has decided to keep you and the person who accused you away from each other until your official hearing.

What Are the Penalties for Violating a Protective Order in Maryland?

It is very important to obey the terms of a temporary protective order. Violating them can be charged as a separate crime with its own punishment. The first violation can mean up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both (Maryland Code, Family Law Section 4-509). More violations can mean up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Violating a protective order can negatively affect your domestic violence case. The court may see a violation as a sign that you don’t respect the law. The judge may consider this when making decisions about your domestic violence case.

What Counts as Violating a Protective Order in Maryland?

Anything that goes against your specific order counts as a violation. Some things may not seem very bad under normal circumstances. Common examples include:

• Sending a text, email, or social media message, even a friendly one
• Asking a friend or a relative to pass along a message
• Showing up where the other person works or shops
• Going back to a shared home to get clothes or documents
• Answering when the protected person calls or messages you first

The order limits what you can do, not what the other person does. If they contact you and you reply when you are not supposed to talk to them, you can still be charged.

If the other person repeatedly tries to contact you, write it down and tell your attorney. Save the messages and don’t answer them. Write down dates, times, and who was with you if they try to see you in person. If you need something from your home, ask your attorney about a police escort or another arrangement the court allows.

What If I’m Charged With Violating a Restraining Order and I’m Not a US Citizen?

A criminal conviction may affect immigration status for people who aren’t U.S. citizens. If you are not a citizen, tell your attorney early so they can address it in their defense.

Call a Montgomery County, MD Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today

A temporary protective order is a normal part of many domestic violence cases. An attorney can help you understand the terms so you don’t accidentally violate them.

Our Prince George’s County, MD criminal defense lawyers answer the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We have more than 45 years of legal experience and strong relationships with judges. We won’t push you into a plea deal just to close a case. We also help clients get ready for court, including what to expect and how to present themselves.

Call the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder at 301-762-7500 for a free consultation. Se habla español.