Types

• To start the restraining order process, you should know the type of protection you're seeking. Maryland offers three types of protective orders: interim, temporary and final. An interim protective order immediately stops the individual from harming or threatening you. The order is only granted by the local District Court commissioner when the court is closed. An interim protective order only lasts until you attend a temporary hearing. A temporary hearing, also called an ex parte---or one party---order lasts for seven days. A judge issues a final protective order after a hearing where you and your abuse testify in court. Based on the evidence, a judge can give you a protective order for one or two years or forever.