Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Emden Law: Protective Order Lawyer in Rockville, MD ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.emdenlaw.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [What to Expect at a Protective Order Hearing in Maryland — and How Long a Final Order Lasts If It’s Granted](https://www.emdenlaw.com/maryland-final-protective-order-hearing-what-to-expect/): What to expect at a Maryland final protective order hearing: the FL §4-506 preponderance standard, your rights in the room, and how long an order lasts. - [Second-Degree Assault in a Maryland Domestic Case: Penalties, Defenses, and the Collateral Consequences That Outlast the Sentence](https://www.emdenlaw.com/second-degree-assault-maryland-domestic-violence-penalties/): Charged with second-degree assault (Md. Crim. Law §3-203) in a Maryland domestic case? A Rockville defense attorney explains the penalties, defenses, and lasting consequences. - [The Difference Between Reckless Driving and Negligent Driving In Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/the-difference-between-reckless-driving-and-negligent-driving-in-maryland/): "I must have been going too fast" is frequently the first thought that comes to mind when a driver receives a citation for reckless driving. - [Not Every Touching Is Considered Assault](https://www.emdenlaw.com/not-every-touching-is-considered-assault/): A common misconception is that any physical contact between two individuals—especially if it is unwelcome—is automatically considered assault. In reality, judges, assault lawyers, and courts take a far more nuanced approach. Not every contact satisfies the legal standard, particularly when it is inadvertent or incidental, even though intentional, harmful, or offensive touching may unquestionably qualify as assault. - [What Drivers Should Know About Maryland’s Strict New Reckless Driving Law](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-drivers-should-know-about-marylands-strict-new-reckless-driving-law/): In October of 2025 Maryland  toughened its reckless driving laws with the passage of The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act,. The law represents a major effort by law makers to stop danger and destructive driving. - [How Maryland Police Decide to Arrest in Domestic Violence Cases](https://www.emdenlaw.com/how-maryland-police-decide-to-arrest-in-domestic-violence-cases/): Domestic violence calls are challenging and highly emotional situations for Maryland police officers. Contrary to common assumptions, officers do not base arrest decisions on who is more upset, who called 911 first, or who simply “seems right.” - [May police search my car based on the odor of marijuana?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/may-police-search-my-car-based-on-the-odor-of-marijuana/): For many years, Maryland law allowed for a law enforcement officer to search a vehicle at a traffic stop on the grounds that the officer smelled the odor of marijuana, since marijuana was considered an illegal substance, and therefore contraband, in the State of Maryland.  When the Legislature decriminalized possession of less than ten grams of marijuana, the odor of marijuana was still considered probable cause to search a car because marijuana itself was still considered contraband or evidence of a crime. - [Why You Should Submit a Change of Address Form to the Post Office When You Move – Especially for Legal Reasons](https://www.emdenlaw.com/why-you-should-submit-a-change-of-address-form-to-the-post-office-when-you-move-especially-for-legal-reasons/): Moving to a new home comes with a long to-do list: packing, utilities, new keys, and often, notifying friends and family. But one often-overlooked task can have serious consequences if ignored—submitting a change of address form to the post office. This step is especially critical if you are involved in any legal matters or need to ensure you remain reachable by the legal system. - [LEGAL ADVICE FOR FEUDING NEIGHBORS](https://www.emdenlaw.com/legal-advice-for-feuding-neighbors/): It is always best to know a well-trained attorney skilled at winning cases at your disposal. Someone trained in litigating Maryland Peace Orders can save you from facing unwelcome legal stress if you find yourself at odds with an unreasonable neighbor. - [Not Competent to Stand Trial vs Not Criminally Responsible: What Do These Terms Mean?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/not-competent-to-stand-trial-vs-not-criminal-responsible-what-do-these-terms-mean/): Most Americans over a certain age remember when President Ronald Reagan and three other people were shot by a lone gunman.  The accused, John Hinkley, was captured and found not guilty and not criminally responsible for the shooting. - [Can the Police Force Me to Provide Them with My DNA?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/can-the-police-force-me-to-provide-them-with-my-dna/): In the United States, the police can force you to provide a DNA sample under certain circumstances, but this depends on several factors, including the nature of the case, the jurisdiction, and whether you are under arrest. Here's a general overview: - [Must Potential Jurors Be Asked About Bias Against Homosexuality in Maryland Courts?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/must-potential-jurors-be-asked-about-bias-against-homosexuality-in-maryland-courts/): During the voir dire process, the lawyers can ask questions of potential jurors during jury selection to identify a juror’s potential biases. In criminal cases and those involving issues of discrimination, bias, or civil rights, the question of whether jurors might harbor biases based on sexuality can be significant and could affect the outcome of a case. - [Can a Maryland Court Remove Another Employee from my Job Who is Harassing Me?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/can-a-maryland-court-remove-another-employee-from-my-job-who-is-harassing-me/): Yes, a judge can take legal action to prevent someone who is harassing you from returning to their job, particularly if their job allows them to continue the harassment. This is typically done through peace orders, restraining orders, or workplace restraining orders: - [IS THE USE OF DRONES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT A GOOD THING FOR EVERYONE?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/is-the-use-of-drones-for-law-enforcment-a-good-thing-for-everyone/): Surveillance and Monitoring: Law enforcement is employing drones  to monitor large areas, especially in situations like public events, protests, or crime scenes. They provide a bird’s-eye view, which can be crucial for assessing situations and making informed decisions by local police for: - [Can a Judge make the losing party pay my legal fees? – Maryland Rule 1-341](https://www.emdenlaw.com/can-a-judge-make-the-losing-party-pay-my-legal-fees-maryland-rule-1-341/): In many legal systems, whether the losing party can be required to pay the prevailing party's legal fees depends on the jurisdiction, the nature of the case, and the specific circumstances. Here are some general principles and considerations: - [Domestic Violence Central Repository](https://www.emdenlaw.com/domestic-violence-central-repository/): Starting in 2020, the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy created the Domestic Violence Central Repository. The Repository is a database that stores records of peace and protective order cases issued by Maryland Courts. The current legal authority is found in § 4-512.1 of the Maryland Family Law Article and in COMAR 01.04.04.03. - [Could I go to jail for a violation of a Peace or Protective Order?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/criminal-violations-of-protective-and-peace-orders/): Next, your case comes to court. In order for a judge to convict you of a violation of an order, he or she would require proof that you were served with the underlying order in the first place and that you voluntarily violated the terms of the order.  Each violation of a peace or protective order carries a maximum of 60 days in jail. - [What is the crime of second degree assault in Maryland?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/crime-of-second-degree-assault-in-maryland/): In the State of Maryland, the Legislature determined that there are two degrees of assault: First Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault.  The Legislature codified what constitutes each and what penalties a person can face if found guilty of assault.  Here are three situations in which the crime of second-degree assault may arise: - [WHY THE ENTRY OF A PROTECTIVE ORDER AGAINST YOU COULD HAVE THE SAME EFFECT AS IF YOU WERE CONVICTED OF A CRIME](https://www.emdenlaw.com/why-the-entry-of-a-protective-order-against-you-could-have-the-same-effect-as-if-you-were-convicted-of-a-crime/): Under Maryland Law, a Petition for a Protective Order, as well as the granting of a Temporary or Final Order, are part of civil procedure.  In a protective order case, the Petitioner files for protection from the Respondent, and at the hearing the police and the Office of the States Attorney are not involved in this process.  At the hearing for a Final Order, each party has an opportunity to tell the Court his or her side of the story, but no one is facing jail time, probation, or a fine. - [Parent commits ‘Mental Injury of a Child’ by berating child over child’s sexual orientation](https://www.emdenlaw.com/appellate-court-of-maryland-decides-important-protective-order-case-issue-parent-commits-mental-injury-of-a-child-by-berating-child-over-childs-sexual-orientation/): In the case of C.M. v. J.M., Maryland’s mid-level appellate court recently decided in a published Opinion that a parent’s demeaning comments about his two adolescent children’s sexual orientation could serve as the basis for the granting of a final protective order. The court decided that a father who had repeatedly communicated in person and through text messages homophobic comments based on the father’s religious beliefs had caused fear and shame, which constituted “threats “and “mental injury” to his 15-year-old and 12-year-old children.  Since it is a published case, this decision can be cited as case law in any Court in Maryland. - [Electronic Stalking in Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/electronic-stalking-in-maryland/): In the 2022 General Assembly session, the Maryland Legislature expanded the law of Stalking.  In response to decisions in the courts and to public sentiments against stalking behavior through electronic devices, Maryland lawmakers added a new provision to the Stalking law, which included cyberstalking as a potential basis for the criminal charge of stalking. Maryland Criminal Law Article §3-802 now prohibits the use of any form of electronic communication which “causes or which the person knows or reasonably should have known would cause serious emotional distress to another.” - [What to Do If Revenge Porn Happens to You](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-to-do-if-revenge-porn-happens-to-you/): Imagine you are at the beach in Ocean City, Maryland with your wife and children. It’s a beautiful summer day and you take a “selfie” of yourself and your family to have a memory of the day.   There are other beachgoers in the background of your picture.  You decide that the picture looks so good you post it on your Facebook page.  The next thing you know, you are being served with papers and being accused of revenge porn by a woman who is in the background of your picture wearing a string bikini that reveals too much of her body. - [WHAT ARE THE PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL RISKS OF A PROTECTIVE ORDER?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-are-the-professional-and-personal-risks-of-a-protective-order/): Protective Orders in the State of Maryland arise in a civil proceeding in which the Petitioner must establish, by a preponderance of the evidence, that domestic abuse occurred against him or her. Often, the person who caused the abuse is ordered to stay away from the person who was harmed, as well as his or her home, workplace, and school, if applicable. - [Witness Testimony is Evidence That May Make or Break Your Case](https://www.emdenlaw.com/witness-testimony-is-evidence-that-may-make-or-break-your-case/): Everyone relates best to the testimony of a witness sitting just a few feet away from them. Data shows that the in-court testimony of a witness can still make or break your case with judges and juries. As such, a trial lawyer’s job consists of using his side’s witnesses to help him tell his client’s story to a judge or jury. - [Maryland’s Changing Legal Landscape Over Possession of Marijuana](https://www.emdenlaw.com/marylands-changing-legal-landscape-over-possession-of-marijuana/): Marijuana laws in the United States are currently an ever-changing patchwork.  Bills have been introduced in Congress to legalize marijuana and a number of states have legalized medical marijuana (37 states & DC) and recreational marijuana (18 states & DC). While Maryland has a medical marijuana law, generally marijuana is still considered contraband in the state.  If you do not possess a medical marijuana card (and even when you do) you may still be subject to police search and detention if the police believe that you have just smoked it. - [How to Testify Effectively in Court](https://www.emdenlaw.com/how-to-testify-effectively-in-court/): If you find yourself as a witness or party to a case in court, adopting the suggestions we offer may improve the strength of your testimony. This article offers you several skills to employ. It is not a substitute for more intensive preparation offered by a skilled trial lawyer: - [Can Someone Modify or Rescind a Protective Order?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/can-someone-modify-or-rescind-a-protective-order/): If a Protective Order is in place, a Court can modify or rescind (void) it at any time during the term that the Order is in effect upon a showing of “good cause”. - [2021 CHANGES TO MARYLAND PROTECTIVE AND PEACE ORDER STATUTES](https://www.emdenlaw.com/recent-changes-to-maryland-protective-and-peace-order-statutes/): Previously, a person who was not related to the Respondent or did not have a sexual relationship with the Respondent could only file a Peace Order Petition which has a much shorter duration and has fewer protective remedies than a protective order. - [Top Legal Questions for Victims of Domestic Violence](https://www.emdenlaw.com/top-legal-questions-for-victims-of-domestic-violence/): To file a Petition for a Protective Order in Maryland, a person needs to go to a District or Circuit Courthouse in the County in which they live, fill out the Petition, and have a brief hearing before a judge (or after regular hours, a commissioner), who then determines whether to issue a Temporary Order. Once a Temporary Order is secured and served, it goes into effect, and a hearing is set for a Final Protective Order.  Both parties will have an opportunity to present their case to the Court at the Final Protective Order hearing.  A domestic violence victim and the person against whom the Petition has been filed may represent themselves in this matter.  At the same time, either or both parties may want to hire an experienced Maryland domestic violence lawyer to assist in this hearing. - [WHAT QUALIFIES AS PAIN AND SUFFERING IN A PERSONAL INJURY CASE?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-qualifies-as-pain-and-suffering-in-a-personal-injury-case/): Personal injury attorneys often advertise that they will “get you paid” for your pain and suffering. But what exactly does “pain and suffering” mean in a legal sense, and how do you prove or demonstrate pain and suffering? - [Can You Drop a Protective Order?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/can-you-drop-a-protective-order/): It is all too common that a spouse files a petition for a protective order in the heat of the moment, then upon reflection wishes to withdraw his/her petition. Is there a legal way to drop a protective order? - [What To Do If You Are In A Car Accident](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-in-a-car-accident/): Every day on Maryland roads, drivers are involved in traffic accidents.  Many accidents are minor fender-benders, but more serious ones can result in serious damage to property as well as injuries or even death.  The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) reported that in 2019, 32,918 people were injured in car accidents in the State of Maryland and there were 492 fatalities. - [Your Protective Order Case: What is Emergency Family Maintenance?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/your-protective-order-case-what-is-emergency-family-maintenance/): “award emergency family maintenance as necessary to support any person eligible for relief to whom the respondent has a duty of support under this article, including an immediate and continuing withholding order on all earnings of the respondent in the amount of the ordered emergency family maintenance in accordance with the procedures specified in Title 10, Subtitle 1, Part III of this article.” - [Ten Steps to Obtaining a Protective Order](https://www.emdenlaw.com/ten-steps-to-obtaining-a-protective-order/): Protective orders may be filed at any time by the person abused or threatened with violence by a person who is either the spouse, ex-spouse, domestic partner, someone with whom he/she shares a child, someone, he/she, dated or had a sexual relationship with or is a current or ex-boyfriend or girlfriend of the person seeking protection from the court.  If the abuser is someone who doesn’t fit into any of those categories, such as a friend, acquaintance, neighbor, or a complete stranger, then you should file a “peace order,” not a “protective order.” - [Extreme Risk Protective Orders](https://www.emdenlaw.com/extreme-risk-protective-orders/): In 2018, the Maryland Legislature passed a bill signed into law by Governor Hogan creating Maryland's Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO).  This kind of protective order is specific to a person who poses an immediate and present danger of causing personal injury to self or others by having firearms.  This kind of temporary order has not been found to be violative of Second Amendment privileges. - [Common Questions About Peace and Protective Orders in Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/common-questions-about-peace-and-protective-orders-in-maryland/): Q:        What is an Emergency Protective Order or Peace Order? - [What Is the Difference Between a Peace Order and a Protective Order?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-is-the-difference-between-peace-order-and-protective-order/): When a person in Maryland feels like they are being threatened, harassed, or abused by another person, there are two ways the person can petition a court for relief: through a peace order or a protective order. But what is the difference? - [Do Peace Orders Go on Your Record?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/do-peace-orders-go-on-your-record/): What if you are the person falsely accused of harassment who is served with a temporary peace order in Maryland?  Does this go on your “record”? - [How To Fill Out A Financial Statement For EFM](https://www.emdenlaw.com/how-to-fill-out-a-financial-statement-for-efm/): If you are the prevailing partner in a protective order case, you may qualify for Emergency Family Maintenance (EFM).  You may know that in any case involving a child or children, or in a case where the partners are married, you are entitled to ask the Court for Emergency Family Maintenance.  However, before a Court will order EFM you must prove to the Court both your needs and those of your minor children, as well as the other party’s ability to pay. - [How an Attorney Helps a Crime Victim Win in Court](https://www.emdenlaw.com/how-an-attorney-can-help-a-crime-victim-win-in-court/): In Maryland, victims of crime have important rights. Maryland Criminal Procedure Article § 11-1002 offers guidelines for helping victims of a crime, declaring that they should be treated with “dignity, respect, courtesy, and sensitivity”. - [Are Cease and Desist Letters cost effective?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/cease-and-desist-letter/): When you’d like to stop someone from harassing you with annoying or dangerous conduct, the law requires that you first tell them to stop before you can file a peace order against them. An effective and relatively inexpensive way to do this is to send that person a cease and desist letter. - [October Update on Maryland Courts](https://www.emdenlaw.com/october-update-on-maryland-courts/): Published October 9, 2020 by Marc Emden - [Does Sending the offender a Cease and Desist Letter stop the Harassment?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/does-sending-the-offender-a-cease-and-desist-letter-stop-the-harassment/): While Maryland’s harassment laws do not require the victim to formally request the harasser to stop by letter, some documentation goes a long way in establishing your displeasure with the offender’s actions—hence the cease and desist letter- often at a lower cost than hiring an attorney to pursue other actions. - [How Social Stigma Silences Domestic Violence Victims](https://www.emdenlaw.com/how-social-stigma-silences-domestic-violence-victims/): Many domestic violence victims suffer in silence. Enduring a steady pattern of abuse and humiliation at home, they bravely attempt to present a solid exterior in public. Sometimes they pull it off; usually, they do not.  Our Maryland domestic violence lawyer notices the signs.  Whether physical or emotional, red flags are flying. - [New Rules for Peace and Protective Orders in Maryland during COVID-19](https://www.emdenlaw.com/covid-19-new-peace-protective-order-rules-maryland/): The on-going situation with COVID-19 has changed the way Maryland courts are handling restraining orders. Learn more about how it impacts you and what changed about the process here. - [Facts You Should Know Before You File A Protective Order in Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/facts-you-should-know-before-you-file-a-protective-order-in-maryland/): If you have been abused by a family member or someone with whom you are in a romantic relationship, you are eligible to file a Petition for Protective Order against the person responsible for the abuse. While filing the Petition itself may seem straightforward, there are a few things you may not know about the legal process. Learn more about the process here. - [What You Should Do If You Cause a Car Accident](https://www.emdenlaw.com/what-to-do-if-you-cause-car-accident/): If you are involved in a car accident, it can be a stressful event. There are certain basic steps you should take when it first happens. Learn what to do and what not to do here. - [Can a Driving While Under the Influence Conviction Prevent My Citizenship?](https://www.emdenlaw.com/dui-conviction-prevent-citizenship/): If you are an immigrant, after you are convicted of a DUI you may be wondering if it will impact your chances of citizenship. While it is still possible to become a citizen with a DUI charge, you will be required to prove to that you are still a person with “good moral character.” - [Felony vs. Misdemeanor Charges in Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/felony-vs-misdemeanor-charges-maryland/): If you are charged with a felony in the State of Maryland, the general rule implies that you are facing at least one year of potential jail time for the charge, while misdemeanor charges usually carry a maximum in jail of one year or less. However, due to changes by the Maryland General Assembly, some crimes no longer fall within the general rule and some misdemeanors carry longer sentences than felonies. - [For Protective and Peace Orders, Maryland Law Provides for a Cooling Off Period Between the Parties](https://www.emdenlaw.com/protective-peace-orders-maryland-law/): Whether you’re the person filing for a protective order (Petitioner) or the person against whom the Protective Order is filed (Respondent), Maryland law gives the parties a period of up to six months to decide whether to seek a final protective order or to dismiss the case, if they choose to. This window often serves as a golden opportunity for the parties to enter into discussions to attempt to settle some of their outstanding differences. Find out more about this cooling off period in this post. ## Pages - [How to File for a Maryland Peace Order: A Petitioner’s Guide](https://www.emdenlaw.com/file-peace-order/): A step-by-step petitioner's guide — filing the petition, each hearing, filing for a child, and the juvenile / DJS path. - [How to File for a Maryland Protective Order: A Petitioner’s Guide](https://www.emdenlaw.com/file-protective-order/): A step-by-step petitioner's guide — what it takes to file, what happens at each hearing, and where an attorney can help. - [Stalking and Harassment](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-and-harassment/): Stalking involves unwanted and repeated cyber, electronic, or in-person surveillance or harassment of someone. Stalking often involves domestic or intimate partners where one party stalks another to gain coercive control over the other. It can involve serious emotional, physical, sexual, psychological distress, and even economic abuse. It can include (but is not limited to)following someone, monitoring their activities, making unwanted contact, or gathering information about them without their consent. If you or someone you know is being stalked, it’s important to seek help from law enforcement, legal assistance, victim support, finding shelter or safe houses, and other support services. - [Domestic Violence Lawyer in Rockville, Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/maryland-domestic-violence-lawyer/): If you have been or you may be charged with a domestic violence offense, such as assault, false imprisonment, or misuse of the telephone, call Emden Law to schedule a confidential consultation with a domestic violence attorney in Maryland so that we can evaluate your legal rights and ensure that the potential for long-time consequences is minimized. - [Criminal Defense Lawyer in Rockville, Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/rockville-criminal-defense-lawyer/): Marc Emden, a trusted Rockville criminal lawyer and criminal defense attorney, has represented hundreds of clients in Maryland and the District of Columbia facing serious criminal charges such as illegal search and seizure, assault charges, DUI defense, and domestic violence cases. He will fight for your freedom and protect your reputation. - [Assault Lawyer in Rockville, Maryland](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-lawyer-in-rockville-maryland/): Marc Emden has represented hundreds of clients in Maryland and the District of Columbia facing assault charges. As a skilled assault lawyer, he protects your rights throughout Rockville and the surrounding areas. If you need a Rockville criminal lawyer due to an assault accusation, he will aggressively defend you against all charges. - [Protective Order](https://www.emdenlaw.com/protective-order/): Under Maryland Law, if someone who is your spouse, or an intimate partner, or who is a relative or someone you live with, engages in a course of conduct that is assaultive, or that is meant to threaten or stalk you, then you have the right to file for a protective order. An order removes the offending person from your residence and keeps the offending person from contacting you or coming to your home or place of work, as well as your school if you are a student. A Final Protective Order remains in effect for a period of up to one year and can be extended upon the request of the Petitioner and after a hearing. - [Peace Order](https://www.emdenlaw.com/peace-order/): Under Maryland Law, if someone you do not live with or do not have an intimate relationship with after a warning to cease contact engages in the course of conduct meant to harass, threaten, or stalk you, you have the right to file for a peace order. The purpose of the order is to keep the offending person from contacting you or coming to your home or place of work, as well as your school, if you are a student. A final peace order remains in effect for up to six months. Unlike a protective order, a peace order cannot be extended. - [Orders Landing Page](https://www.emdenlaw.com/protective-peace-orders/): With over 30 years of legal experience, Marc Emden has successfully helped clients across Maryland, including Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, and surrounding areas, obtain peace orders, protective orders, and restraining orders. His compassionate and creative strategies greatly improve the likelihood of your winning your case. - [Home](https://www.emdenlaw.com/): Emden Law is a Rockville-based firm representing individuals across Maryland and Washington, DC in domestic violence, peace order, and protective order matters — and the full range of criminal and traffic charges. Led by Marc Emden, an attorney with more than 30 years of experience in Maryland’s District and Circuit Courts, the firm is dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through the most stressful moments of your life with clarity, compassion, and a clear plan. Whether you have been served with an order, accused of a crime, or need to file for protection yourself, Emden Law delivers focused, personalized representation built around your circumstances. - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Severna Park, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-severna-park-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Severna Park, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Montgomery County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-montgomery-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Montgomery County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Frederick, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-frederick-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Frederick, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Frederick County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-frederick-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Frederick County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Prince George’s County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-prince-georges-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Prince George’s County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Baltimore County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-baltimore-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Baltimore County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Rockville, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-rockville-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Rockville, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Anne Arundel County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-anne-arundel-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Anne Arundel County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Howard County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-howard-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Howard County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Charles County](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-charles-county/): If you are a criminal defendant in Charles County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Greenbelt, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-greenbelt-md/): If you have been charged with second-degree assault in Greenbelt, Maryland, it’s crucial to clearly understand the nature of the accusation and what your next steps should be. This information will help you make informed decisions as you navigate the legal process. - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Beltsville, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-beltsville-md/):  If you’re facing Second-Degree Assault charges in Beltsville, Maryland, it’s important to understand what the charge means and what steps you should take next. - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Hyattsville, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-hyattsville-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Hyattsville, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Laurel, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-laurel-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Laurel, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes College Park, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-college-park-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in College Park, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Lanham, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-lanham-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Lanham, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Upper Marlboro, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-upper-marlboro-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Upper Marlboro, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Ellicott City, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-ellicott-city-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Ellicott City, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Annapolis, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-annapolis-md/): The use of a weapon, particularly a firearm, in any crime will cause prosecutors to increase the severity of the charge. Certainly, other factors will also influence outcomes, such as whether a firearm was fired, brandished, or merely on the defendant’s person at the time of the assault. Is an assault on a law enforcement officer more serious in Maryland? Yes. The assault of a law enforcement officer in Maryland is treated more severely than an assault on any other person. Suppose you are convicted of Assault in the Second Degree against a law enforcement officer. In that case, it becomes a felony, and while the maximum term of imprisonment remains ten years, the level of the fine increases. - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Catonsville, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-catonsville-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Catonsville, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Gaithersburg, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-gaithersburg-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Anne Arundel County, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Silver Spring, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-silver-spring-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Silver Spring, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Olney, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-olney-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Olney, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Potomac, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-potomac-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Potomac, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Kensington, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-kensington-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Kensington, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Montgomery Village, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-montgomery-village-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Montgomery Village, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Glen Burnie, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-glen-burnie-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Glen Burnie, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Chevy Chase, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-chevy-chase-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Chevy Chase, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Germantown, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-germantown-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Germantown, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Assault in the Second Degree Crimes Bethesda, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/assault-in-the-second-degree-crimes-bethesda-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Bethesda, Maryland charged with assault in the second degree, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Silver Spring, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-silver-spring-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Silver Spring, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Potomac, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-potomac-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Potomac, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Olney, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-olney-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Olney, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Rockville, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-rockville-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Rockville, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Montgomery Village, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-montgomery-village-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Montgomery Village, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Kensington, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-kensington-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Kensington, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Glen Burnie, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-glen-burnie-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Glen Burnie, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Germantown, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-germantown-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Germantown, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking/Harassment in Gaithersburg, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-gaithersburg-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Gaithersburg, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: - [Stalking / Harassment in Chevy Chase, MD](https://www.emdenlaw.com/stalking-harassment-in-chevy-chase-md/): If you are a criminal defendant in Chevy Chase, Maryland charged with stalking and/or harassment, here’s a guide to understanding your situation and the steps to take: