Maryland Peace and Protective Orders (Brochure) is a legal document issued by the court that orders an abuser to stop abusive behavior and stay away from the abused person and their family. It is available to people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment. This document is issued by a judge after a hearing where both the abuser and the abused have an opportunity to present their case. There are two types of Maryland Peace and Protective Orders (Brochure): Emergency Protective Orders (EPO) and Final Protective Orders (FPO). EPOS are issued by a judge when an emergency situation arises, and the order is in effect until a hearing is held. FPO's are issued after a hearing has taken place, and the order is in effect for up to one year, unless otherwise specified by the court. Both types of orders are designed to protect the abused person from further harm by ordering the abuser to stay away from the abused person, their home, their workplace, their school, or any other place they may frequent. If the abuser violates the order, they can be arrested and charged with a criminal offense. The abuser can also be ordered to pay restitution, counseling, or other costs associated with the abuse. Maryland Peace and Protective Orders (Brochure) provide an essential layer of legal protection for victims of abuse. Those who have experienced abuse should contact their local court to find out more about what protections are available to them.