Criminal Defense/Protective OrdersProtective Orders

Domestic Violence is a crime in Maryland usually charged as Assault

Annapolis and Bowie domestic violence, criminal defense lawyer, Maria Patterson, handles criminal domestic violence matters in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties. She is also a trained mediator for domestic matters. Typically, the elements necessary to prove the crime of assault are sufficient to obtain a Protective Order or a Peace Order against the abuser.

Judges can be skeptical of protective order filings if the parties are going through a family law dispute such as a separation or divorce.Protective Orders are not to be used as a tool to manipulate or fast track divorce proceedings.

Protective order cases often accompany family law matters and criminal claims of assault. Abuse is the most common allegation to support a protective order request. Domestic violence can be difficult to prove due to limited number of witnesses. Abuse includes any of the following acts:

  1. An act that inflicts serious bodily harm;
  2. An act that places a person in fear of imminent serious bodily harm;
  3. Assault;
  4. Rape, attempted rape, certain designated sexual offenses and the attempt of such a sexual offense;
  5. False imprisonment;
  6. Stalking

Family law matters are often vigorously contested and charges of assault and similar criminal charges are often leveled while divorce proceedings are pending. Annapolis domestic violence lawyer, Maria Patterson, is experienced at handling criminal matters with their genesis in family disputes. She has worked closely with family law lawyers to minimize the impact of criminal charges on pending divorce and child custody matters. Please call Bowie domestic violence lawyer, Maria Patterson, at 410.MEDIATE to discuss your case.

Peace Orders

Peace Orders can be obtained for up to 6 (Six) months and the event giving rise to the Peace Order must have occurred within the last 30 days from the filing date.

The second requirement for a Peace Order is that the actions are likely to continue to occur. If someone is moving, this element is not met.

Peace Orders are similar to Protective Orders but are sought against individuals where there is no familial or romantic relationship.

The Bowie and Annapolis domestic violence lawyers at Patterson Law serve clients in Prince George’s and Anne Arundel Counties. Protective order lawyer Maria Patterson’s offices are conveniently located in Annapolis and Bowie near Route 50.

In recognition of Maria’s preparation, persistence and personality, the false claims were dropped and the case against me was dismissed!!

Name Withheld

Domestic Violence Client

She was so impressive in court that after my trial individuals sitting in the court room awaiting trial asked for her business card. I’ve worked with lawyers for over 20 years and I haven’t met anyone as tenacious as Mrs. Patterson.

Domestic Violence Client

Thorough, knowledgeable, organized and hard-working are just a few of the many strong attributes that Maria Patterson demonstrates as a superior attorney. I would highly recommend Ms. Patterson for any and all legal needs.

Kathryne

Domestic Violence Client

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If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident or suffered a serious personal injury due to someone else’s negligence please contact the best personal injury lawyers at Patterson Law. George Patterson has been featured in an article published in the Best Lawyers in America. The “best” injury lawyers may be reached at their Annapolis or Bowie offices at 301-888-4878.

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