Legal

The DVC Legal Department assists victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in a number of ways.  DVC attorneys and legal staff work with clients who have been abused by an intimate partner, became a victim of sexual assault, or stalking.

Legal staff is available by phone or appointment:
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Please call 410-997-0304 for more information.

Most of DVC’s legal services are free and can include:

  • Information and referrals to appropriate resources in the community
  • Assistance with the completion of a Petition for Protective Order or a Petition for a Peace Order
  • Volunteer Legal Court Advocates available at the District Court of Howard County daily to provide information and referrals to victims filing Petitions for Protection
  • Safety planning (Sample Safety Plan)
  • Representation in Temporary and/or Final Protective Order in the District Court and Circuit Court of Howard County or certain Peace Order hearings
  • Assistance with and representation in modification proceedings to change the terms of a Final Protective Order or Peace Order
  • Assistance with and representation (where appropriate) in contempt or other proceedings to enforce a  Final Protective Order or Peace Order
  • Assistance with and representation in appeals from Final Protection Order or Peace Order hearings held in the District Court for Howard County
  • Accompaniment to the Commissioner’s Office or the State’s Attorney’s Office to file criminal charges
  • Accompaniment in criminal proceedings and assistance through the criminal process
  • Divorce, custody and child support consultations*
  • Referrals to other legal services providers, pro bono attorneys and attorneys willing to accept reduced fees for family law or criminal law matters

*On a very limited basis, the DVC may provide direct representation in family law matters.  Those services may be free or the DVC may charge clients based on a sliding scale.