Emergency Family-Law Resources in Maryland

Temporary orders involving children

Maryland does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Ex parte orders are limited and the court and the county matter. Use the Circuit Court interim / emergency procedure and county forms, and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.

A parent can request interim custody / parenting time through the Circuit Court procedure. For an immediate threat, a protective order petition is a separate, faster route.

Protective orders (Md. Code, Fam. Law § 4-506)

A Maryland protective order is issued under Md. Code, Fam. Law § 4-506. A judge can issue a temporary (ex parte) order that lasts not more than 7 days after service on the respondent (extendable up to 6 months to serve or for good cause). The final protective order hearing shall be held no later than 7 days after the temporary order is served. At the hearing, the petitioner must prove the order should remain by a preponderance of the evidence. Obey every term; only the issuing court can change it.

Maryland child protective (local DSS)

Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to the Maryland Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-91-PREVENT (1-800-917-7383) (24/7) or to local law enforcement. Maryland's child protective system is administered by local departments of social services (DSS). A report can lead to a local DSS CPS investigation. An unfounded report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end custody or visitation.