How to Get Legal Protection from Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It happens when one person in a relationship tries to control or harm the other through physical, emotional, or verbal abuse. This kind of violence can take many forms, including hitting, threats, stalking, or even controlling someone’s money and movements. Many people who experience domestic violence feel afraid and unsure about what to do next.

If you or someone you know is in this kind of situation, it is important to know that help is available. In Maryland, the law provides ways to protect victims of domestic violence, and you do not have to face it alone. Getting legal protection is one of the most important steps to stop the abuse and stay safe.

Why Legal Protection Matters

Legal protection can give you the safety and peace of mind you need to begin healing and rebuilding your life. A protective order is one way the court can help. This order tells the abuser to stay away from you and stop contacting or hurting you. It may also give you temporary custody of your children, grant use of a shared home or vehicle, and stop the abuser from owning firearms.

Having a legal order can make a big difference. It gives you proof that the abuse happened and shows the courts and police that you need protection. If the person breaks the order, they can face serious legal consequences. That’s why it’s important to work with someone who understands the law and can guide you through the process, such as the professionals at the Terry Law Firm.

Steps to Get a Protective Order

The process of getting a protective order in Maryland is designed to be accessible, even if you don’t have a lawyer. The first step is to go to the District or Circuit Court in your area. If it’s after hours or on the weekend, you can go to a Commissioner’s office to get an interim protective order.

When you apply for an order, you will need to fill out a petition that explains the abuse you’ve suffered. Be honest and clear, and give as many details as you can remember. The judge will review your request and decide whether to issue a temporary order right away. A final hearing will usually be scheduled within a week, where you can bring evidence and ask the judge to extend the order.

During this time, having legal support can help you prepare and feel more confident. The Terry Law Firm has experience helping victims of domestic violence, and their team can make sure your case is presented clearly and respectfully in court.

What to Expect in Court

Court hearings can feel overwhelming, especially if you have to face your abuser. However, the court is there to help and protect you. You have the right to bring a lawyer, present evidence, and bring witnesses who can support your story. Photos, medical records, text messages, and police reports can all help prove your case.

The judge will listen to both sides before making a decision. If the judge believes you are in danger, they can issue a final protective order that lasts up to one year and can be extended if needed. The court can also make decisions about custody, housing, and other important matters to help you stay safe and stable.

Long-Term Safety Planning

Getting a protective order is an important first step, but it’s also important to plan for your long-term safety. Make a safety plan that includes trusted friends or family members you can call in an emergency. Change your phone number if needed, and let your workplace, children’s school, or daycare know about the situation.

You may also consider speaking with a counselor or support group. Healing from domestic violence takes time, and it helps to have emotional support. There are many organizations in Maryland that offer free counseling, shelters, and help with finding housing and employment.

Working with the Terry Law Firm

Legal matters can feel confusing, especially when emotions are high. That’s where the Terry Law Firm can help. They understand how difficult it is to take that first step, and they’re committed to guiding you through the legal process with care and compassion. Whether you need help getting a protective order, navigating child custody, or pressing charges, their team is ready to support you.

Having a lawyer by your side can help you feel more confident and secure. They can make sure your paperwork is correct, represent you in court, and speak up for your rights. The Terry Law Firm is experienced in handling domestic violence cases and knows how to protect victims both legally and emotionally.

The Importance of Taking Action

Many people who suffer abuse feel scared to speak up, especially if they depend on the abuser for financial or emotional support. But the longer the abuse continues, the more danger you may face. Taking legal action is not easy, but it is an important step toward safety and freedom.

You are not alone. There are laws in place to protect you, and there are people who care and want to help. Getting legal protection doesn’t just stop the abuse — it can also help you take control of your life again.

Resources and Support

Maryland has many resources for people facing domestic violence. Local shelters can provide a safe place to stay. Hotlines can give you advice at any time of day. Legal services can help even if you don’t have much money. Support groups can connect you with others who understand what you’re going through.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For ongoing support, you can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

You can also reach out to a trusted legal team like the Terry Law Firm, who can explain your rights, guide you through the legal steps, and stand by your side every step of the way.

Conclusion

Getting legal protection from domestic violence is a powerful way to take control of your life and begin a new, safer chapter. With support from the court, helpful services, and experienced legal professionals like those at the Terry Law Firm, you can find the strength to move forward. You deserve to be safe, respected, and heard — and with the right steps, that future is within your reach.

Legal Steps to Take Following a Maryland Boating Accident

Boating can be a fun and peaceful way to enjoy the waters of Maryland. Whether you're out fishing, relaxing with friends, or enjoying a day with family, spending time on a boat can be a great experience. But accidents on the water can and do happen. From simple mistakes to serious crashes, boating accidents in Maryland can lead to injuries, damages, and even legal troubles. Knowing what to do right after an accident can help protect your rights and make the legal process easier.

In this guide, we will walk you through the legal steps you should take following a boating accident in Maryland. These steps are meant to help you stay safe, follow the law, and get the support you need if you're injured or your property is damaged.

Stay Calm and Ensure Safety

The first and most important thing after a boating accident is to stay calm and check for injuries. Make sure that everyone on board is safe and accounted for. If anyone is hurt, call for medical help immediately. Your safety and the safety of others should always come first.

If the boat is still operable and it is safe to do so, try to move it out of the way of other boats to prevent further accidents. If the boat is sinking or too damaged to move, use life jackets and other safety gear to protect yourself and others until help arrives.

Report the Accident

In Maryland, it's required by law to report certain boating accidents to the authorities. If someone is injured, killed, or if the accident causes damage over a specific dollar amount (usually $2,000 or more), you must file a report with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. This report helps track boating accidents and ensures proper investigation if needed.

Failing to report a serious accident can result in fines or other legal problems. Always report the accident as soon as possible, even if it seems minor at first. The details you provide in the report will be useful later if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.

Exchange Information

Just like after a car accident, you should exchange information with the other parties involved in the boating accident. Get their full name, contact information, boat registration number, and insurance details. You may also want to write down a description of their boat, including the make, model, and color.

If there were witnesses nearby, get their contact information too. Their accounts may help later if there are questions about what happened during the accident. Take pictures of the damage, the scene of the accident, and anything else that seems important. These images can be used as evidence during the legal process.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem small at first, it’s important to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries from boating accidents may not show up right away. You could have whiplash, internal injuries, or a concussion without realizing it.

Getting medical care creates a record of your injuries, which is useful if you decide to file a claim later. Delaying treatment could not only harm your health but also make it harder to prove that the injuries were caused by the accident.

Contact Your Insurance Company

After a boating accident, you should contact your insurance company and tell them what happened. Be honest and share the facts clearly. Let them know about the damage to your boat, any injuries, and whether you have already filed a police or accident report.

Your insurance company may ask for documents like photos, medical records, and repair estimates. Providing this information quickly helps speed up the claim process. However, be careful not to admit fault during these conversations. Stick to the facts and avoid guessing what caused the accident.

Understand Liability and Fault

One of the key legal questions in any boating accident is: who was at fault? In boating accidents in Maryland, fault is based on actions such as speeding, boating under the influence, not following navigation rules, or failing to pay attention.

Sometimes, both parties share some level of blame. Maryland follows a strict rule called “contributory negligence,” which means that if you are even slightly at fault, you may not be able to collect damages from the other party. This makes it very important to speak with a lawyer before accepting any blame or signing anything related to fault.

Talk to a Boating Accident Lawyer

Handling the legal side of a boating accident can be confusing, especially if you’re dealing with injuries, boat repairs, or lost time from work. This is where a lawyer can help. A skilled attorney can guide you through your rights, gather evidence, and speak to insurance companies on your behalf.

If you’ve been hurt or your property was damaged, talking to an experienced lawyer like those at the Terry Law Firm can make a big difference. The Terry Law Firm understands the laws around boating accidents in Maryland and can help you build a strong case. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance or going to court, a good lawyer makes sure your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

Know Your Legal Deadlines

In Maryland, there are time limits for filing lawsuits or claims after a boating accident. These limits are called “statutes of limitations.” For personal injury claims, the deadline is generally three years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you might lose your right to seek compensation.

There may be different deadlines for property damage or claims involving government agencies. This is another reason to speak with a lawyer early. They can make sure you meet all deadlines and file the correct paperwork on time.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you’ve been injured or suffered property loss in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation. This could include money for medical bills, lost wages, boat repairs, pain and suffering, and other related costs. A lawyer can help you figure out what types of compensation you may be eligible for and how to prove your case.

The amount of compensation depends on many factors, including the seriousness of your injuries, the cost of repairs, and how the accident has affected your life. The more detailed your records and evidence are, the better chance you have of receiving fair compensation.

Be Cautious About Settlement Offers

After a boating accident, the other party’s insurance company may offer you a quick settlement. While this might seem like a good way to move on, be careful. Often, early settlement offers are much lower than what you actually deserve.

Never sign anything or accept a payment without speaking to a lawyer first. Once you accept a settlement, you usually can’t go back and ask for more money—even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you thought. Having legal advice ensures you don’t settle for less than you’re owed.

Conclusion

Boating accidents in Maryland can happen in an instant, but the effects can last a long time. Whether you're dealing with injuries, boat damage, or legal questions, taking the right steps after the accident can make a big difference. Always make sure everyone is safe, report the accident properly, and collect as much information as you can.

Most importantly, don’t go through the legal process alone. The Terry Law Firm has experience with boating accident cases and can help guide you every step of the way. With their support, you can focus on recovery while they handle the legal work.

Being prepared and informed helps protect your rights and increases your chances of a fair outcome. If you've been involved in a boating accident, don’t wait—reach out for help and take the steps needed to protect your future.

What to Do After a Boating Accident in Maryland: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Boating is a favorite way to enjoy Maryland’s beautiful waters, whether you’re cruising the Chesapeake Bay or relaxing on a quiet lake. But even the most peaceful trip can take a turn if an accident happens. In those moments, knowing what to do next can help you stay calm, protect yourself, and avoid serious legal problems.

This guide will walk you through the steps to take after boating accidents in Maryland so you know what to expect and how to handle the situation from start to finish.

Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Safety is the most important thing. If you're involved in a boating accident:

• Stop the boat right away.

• Check on everyone—your passengers and people on other boats.

• Help anyone who is injured or in danger, but only if you can do it safely.

Maryland law says you must stop and help after a boating accident. Leaving the scene without helping could get you into legal trouble.

Step 2: Call for Help

If someone is hurt, missing, or in the water, call 911 or the Coast Guard immediately.

You can use a marine radio (Channel 16) or a cell phone if you’re close enough to shore. Be ready to share:

• Your location (GPS or nearby landmarks)

• How many people are involved?

• Any injuries

• Whether boats are sinking or damaged

Quick action is especially important in boating accidents in Maryland, where emergency crews can arrive faster if they have the right details.

Step 3: Avoid More Damage

If your boat can still move and it’s safe to do so, steer it to a nearby safe spot. This helps avoid getting hit again or drifting into danger.

If your boat is taking on water, use the pump, life jackets, or anything else to stay afloat until help gets there. Don’t risk it—your safety is more important than the boat.

Step 4: Exchange Information

Once everyone is safe, get basic info from others involved in the accident:

• Names and addresses

• Boat registration numbers

• Insurance details

• Contact info for passengers and witnesses

Also take notes about the weather, visibility, and time of day. These details could be helpful later.

Step 5: Report the Accident

You may need to report the accident to the Maryland Natural Resources Police. You must file a report if:

• Someone is seriously hurt or killed.

• Someone goes missing.

• There’s property damage over $2,000.

• A boat is destroyed.

Usually, you have 48 hours to report serious accidents and 10 days for minor ones. Not reporting it could lead to fines or other problems.

Step 6: Write Everything Down

Accidents can be confusing. That’s why it's smart to write down everything while it's fresh in your memory. Also:

• Take pictures of the damage, your boat, the other boat, and the area where the accident happened.

• Note any injuries (only if appropriate).

• Save weather or location details.

This info can help if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.

Step 7: See a Doctor

Some injuries don’t show up right away. Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. You might have a concussion, whiplash, or internal injuries that aren’t obvious.

Tell your doctor that you were in a boating accident. They’ll know what to look for and will make a medical record, which is helpful if you need to file a claim.

Step 8: Talk to Your Insurance Company

Let your boat insurance provider know about the accident as soon as possible. Give them the facts, and avoid saying anything that could be misunderstood. Don’t guess or admit blame.

Boat insurance may cover:

• Repairs or replacement

• Medical bills

• Damage to other boats or property

• Legal fees, depending on your policy

Boating Accidents in Maryland can lead to complicated claims, so it’s important to stay organized.

Step 9: Be Careful About What You Say

You may be contacted by the other party’s insurance company—or even your own—for a statement. Be polite, but don’t give detailed or recorded statements until you talk to a lawyer.

Even simple things like saying “I’m sorry” can be twisted to sound like you’re admitting fault. Play it safe and wait until you’ve had legal advice.

Step 10: Contact a Boating Accident Lawyer

Boating accidents are different from car accidents. They may involve state, federal, or maritime law, and figuring out who’s responsible isn’t always easy.

That’s why it helps to speak with a lawyer who understands boating laws in Maryland. A good lawyer can:

• Explain your rights.

• Deal with the insurance companies.

• Gather evidence

• Help you get compensation for injuries or damage

• Represent you in court if needed

At Terry Law Firm, we’ve handled many boating accidents in Maryland. We know the law, and we know the waters. If you’re not sure whether you need legal help, you can call us for a free consultation.

Why Boating Accidents Happen

It helps to know what causes accidents so you can avoid them. The most common reasons include

• Not paying attention while driving the boat

• Speeding

• Drinking alcohol

• Lack of experience

• Equipment problems

• Bad weather or low visibility

• Not following boating rules

Each year, boating accidents in Maryland are often linked to alcohol or new boaters who don’t know the rules. Always drive carefully, wear a life jacket, and take a safety course if you’re new to boating.

Can You Get Compensation?

If someone else caused the accident, you might be able to get money for:

• Medical bills

• Lost income if you had to miss work

• Pain and suffering

• Boat repair or replacement

• Ongoing treatment or rehab

• Emotional stress

To do this, you’ll need strong evidence, and it helps to have a lawyer on your side to fight for a fair settlement.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Maryland, you usually have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. But it’s best to start sooner.

Waiting too long can hurt your case—witnesses forget what happened, boats get repaired, and photos get lost. The sooner you act, the better your chances of success.

Common Questions

What if the other boat left the scene?
Write down anything you remember—boat color, size, registration number, direction it went—and report it right away.

Can I file a claim if I was a passenger?
Yes. Passengers can take legal action if the driver of the boat was careless or caused the accident.

Do jet ski or personal watercraft accidents count?
Yes. Jet skis, Sea-Doos, and similar watercraft are covered under the same boating laws.

Conclusion

No one expects to be in a boating accident—but if it happens, being prepared can make a huge difference.

To quickly recap, here’s what to do:

1. Stay safe and check on others.

2. Call for emergency help if needed.

3. Move your boat if it’s safe.

4. Exchange information

5. File an accident report if required.

6. Document the scene and damage.

7. Get medical attention.

8. Inform your insurance company.

9. Watch what you say.

10. Contact a lawyer.

At Terry Law Firm, we’re ready to help you through every step. If you or someone you care about has been involved in boating accidents in Maryland, don’t go through it alone. We’re here to protect your rights and get you the support you need.

📞 Call us today or visit terryatlaw.com for a free consultation.