THE POLICE AND THE CRIMINAL COURT SYSTEM
IN AN EMERGENCY
If you are injured or in danger, call 911! The police can help you get to a safe place and obtain medical treatment, if necessary. Once you are out of immediate danger, call our hotline (1-800-927-4673) for information and support.
PROBABLE CAUSE ARREST
Currently, under Maryland law if the police are called to a domestic violence situation and they observe evidence that a violent crime has occurred (such as obvious injuries, broken windows, or broken furniture), they have the power to arrest even if they did not witness the assault.
BAIL CONDITIONS
The abuser will be released from jail as soon as he/she makes bail. Make the police aware of the abuser's history of domestic violence. They will consider this information when setting bail. The abuser can be ordered to have no contact with you as a condition of his/her bail. Ask the arresting police officer to notify you if and when the abuser makes bail.
CRIMINAL COURT PROCEEDINGS
If the abuser is found guilty or pleads guilty, the sentence could include a fine, jail time, court-mandated counseling, or a combination of these things.
VINE OFFENDER INFORMATION PROGRAM
You can receive a free notification call when your abuser is released from jail. To register call 1-866-634-8463.
STATE'S ATTORNEY'S PHONE NUMBERS
| Caroline County | 410-479-0255 |
| Dorchester County | 410-228-3611 |
| Kent County | 410-778-6109 |
| Queen Anne's County | 410-758-2264 |
| Talbot County | 410-770-0860 |
Legal Program