Restraining Orders

It may be possible to change (modify) or cancel (rescind) a peace order before the order expires by filing in court, giving notice to the person who obtained the order and the abuser, and after holding a hearing.¹ If the hearing is not held before the original expiration date of the final protective order, the order will be automatically extended until the hearing.²

In addition, peace orders can be extended for “good cause.” A judge can extend the term of the peace order for six months after holding a hearing where both the petitioner and respondent have the right to be present. The judge is supposed to hold a hearing on your motion to extend the order within 30 days after the motion is filed. If the order is set to expire within those 30 days, the judge must extend it until the hearing.¹

¹ MD Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 3-1506(a)
² MD Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 3-1506(a)(3)(ii)