Maryland’s New Law Lets You Get a Permanent Protective Order Without a Contested Hearing

Maryland’s protective order system has recently seen some major updates. Starting in 2025, petitioners can now obtain a permanent protective order without having to go through a contested hearing in specific situations. These changes help close loopholes and reduce conflict for both petitioners and respondents. 

At RPM Law, our Maryland protective order attorneys are here to help. These difficult cases deserve the care and attention they need.   

Permanent Protective Orders by Consent or Non-Appearance

Under the prior version of the law, a contested final protective order hearing was necessary before the judge could grant a long-term order. This was often true even when the parties actually agreed that they both wanted the protection order. The court still had to hold the hearing and make finings. This often resulted in:

• Unnecessary delays
• Forced testimony by victims
• Risks to respondent’s constitutional rights
• Increased emotional stress

The new law changes that. Now, a permanent protective order can be issued without a contested hearing in two key situations:

The Respondent Consents to the Order

If the respondent agrees to the protective order, they can consent to it. This is often called a consent protective order. Now the court is allowed to issue a permanent order without having a formal hearing or making findings. This empowers both parties to make decisions that are best for them. 

The Respondent Fails to Appear

Many times, a respondent could get properly served but choose not to show up. In these situations, the court can now issue the protective order without the need for a contested hearing if that is the case. Before, a loophole was often exploited that allowed the respondent to delay or complicate things by not appearing in court. 

What a Permanent Protective Order Can Include

A permanent protective order issued without a contested hearing can still include the full range of protections available under Maryland law, such as:

• No contact and stay-away requirements
• Removal from a shared residence
• Temporary custody provisions
• Firearm surrender requirements
• Counseling or treatment directives
• Financial relief in qualifying circumstances

The order’s duration remains the same as traditional final protective orders. 

What Petitioners Should Expect Under the New Process

Petitioners still begin by filing for an interim or temporary protective order. When the case reaches the final stage:

• If the respondent consents, the judge can issue a permanent order immediately.
• If the respondent does not appear, the judge can issue a permanent order without requiring testimony.
• If the respondent contests, the case proceeds to a traditional hearing.

This means petitioners should still prepare for the possibility of a contested hearing, but they now have two additional pathways that avoid litigation entirely.

What Respondents Should Know

Respondents retain important rights:

• They may consent to an order without admitting wrongdoing.
• They may contest the allegations at a final hearing.
• They must comply with any order issued, including firearm restrictions and stay-away provisions.
• Failure to appear can result in a permanent order being entered without their participation.

The new law emphasizes accountability while preserving due-process protections.

Practical Implications for Maryland Families

The updated protective order system is designed to:

• Increase safety for survivors
• Reduce courtroom conflict
• Encourage early resolution
• Prevent delays caused by non-appearance
• Strengthen coordination with military and federal authorities

For many Maryland families, this means faster protection, fewer traumatic hearings, and clearer enforcement.

Get Help From a Maryland Protective Order Attorney Today

If you need help with a protective order case, our experienced team is ready to help. We know how difficult these situations can be and how to apply the new laws to help. 

Our team at RPM Law are ready to help with your family law needs. Contact us today for a consultation.