Baltimore & Towson Lawyer Discusses Domestic Violence In Unmarried Couples
Domestic Violence Exists
Nobody enters a relationship expecting it to become abusive, but relationships can become abusive quickly and without warning. It does not matter whether the couple is married or not-- as a domestic violence attorney, I know that domestic violence is common just like false allegations are also common, and I help my clients accordingly:
- I obtain peace orders and protective orders for clients that have been been placed in imminent fear of bodily harm and/or harmed.
- When my client has been wrongfully accused of being an abuser, I defend the client at the final peace/protective order hearing.
Different Baltimore County Courts Can Help
As noted above, individuals dealing with domestic violence issues can turn to the Maryland court system for help. For residents of Baltimore County, relief from domestic violence can be sought in:
- Circuit Court for Baltimore County, 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, Maryland 21204
- District Court for Baltimore County, 120 E. Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, Maryland 21286
- District Court for Baltimore County,8914 Kelso Drive, Essex, MD 21221.
- District Court for Baltimore County, 900 Walker Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228
Peace Orders versus Protective Orders
Based on the type of relationship you have with your alleged abuser, two kinds of orders may be available to you: a peace order or a protective order.
- Peace orders offer legal protection to individuals who are having issues with another person (including those who are dating, neighbors or anyone else). Such orders allow the affected individual to ask the court for an order that will require the accused individual to refrain from any and all contact with him or her.
- Protective orders, alternatively, require the existence of a certain type of relationship. For example, to be eligible for these types of orders, you and the alleged abuser must either have been married in the past or currently married; have lived together in a romantic relationship over the last year for a period of at least 90 days; or have had a sexual relationship within the year prior to filing a petition for the order.
There are also a number of other types of relationships that may lead to eligibility for protective orders, and your domestic violence lawyer can provide further guidance on whether or not your exact situation qualifies for a protective order.
As you can see, the difference between the two types of orders comes down to the type of relationship that exists between the parties. But keep in mind that peace orders permit anyone who has been the subject of abuse, stalking, harassment, etc.to seek help from the court and they do not take into account the type of relationship that exists.
Other Considerations
- Some couples may have unresolved issues including child custody,child support, and property division issues. It is important to identify these issues.
- Individuals who have been subjected to domestic violence should seek legal guidance from a family law attorney.
Call (410) 321-4994 For a Free Consultation
Call The Law Offices of Amar S. Weisman at (410) 321-4994 to schedule a Free Consultation. The Purpose of the consultation is to determine whether you want to retain this law firm as your Baltimore County & Harford County Family Lawyer. If you do wish to proceed, then you must pay a retainer. See Our Policy on Fees and Costs. The family firm is located next to The Circuit Court for Baltimore County, at 1018 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204.
