Domestic Violence Assistance

Petitioners should go to room 108 in Courthouse East (111 N. Calvert Street) and ask to see the Domestic Violence Coordinator (DVC).

The DVC assists Petitioners with paperwork and enters necessary information into the computer system. Upon completion of all paperwork, the Petitioner is escorted to the Special Magistrate.

The Special Magistrate hears the case and recommends the issuance of a Temporary Protective Order, if appropriate. If issuance of a Temporary Protective Order is recommended, the case is scheduled for a Final Protective Order hearing before a Family Division Judge in seven (7) days.

Petitioner is escorted back to room 108, where copies are made for the Petitioner and the Sheriff’s Office. DVC will also provide information about specialized programs and resources to the Petitioner.  Possible referrals include:

• The Protective Order Advocacy and Representation Project
• The Multi-Ethnic Domestic Violence Project
• Department of Social Services
• Information of Criminal Charges
• Safety planning
• Counseling

Petitioner is escorted to offices of Domestic Violence Unit of the Sheriff’s Office. A Deputy Sheriff or Advocate will conduct a short interview with the Petitioner in order to gather as much information as possible about the Respondent and the most effective way to serve him/her.

A Final Protective Order hearing is held seven days after issuance of the Temporary Protective Order, if the Respondent has been served. If the Respondent has not been served, the Temporary Protective Order is extended for another seven days, and the Final Protective Order hearing is reset.