Legal Advocacy & Help

Need to File a Protective Order or Looking for Guidance?

Court Advocates play an important role in helping victims weigh the different benefits and drawbacks regarding protection orders as well as guiding them through the court system and filing process. For assistance, please contact your county’s advocate:

St. Mary’s County: Marcus (240) 925-8550

Calvert County: Colleen (240) 925-8549

Charles County: Karen (240) 925-8535

Address Confidentiality Program

 Address Confidentiality Programs (ACPs) allow victims of stalking, sexual assault, domestic violence or other types of crime to receive mail at a substitute address. ACPs keep the victim’s actual address private and prevent offenders from locating the victim through public records. For more information, visit: Maryland Safe at Home

Crime Victim Compensation

One possibility for financial assistance is Crime Victim Compensation. Every state has a state-level Crime Victim Compensation program. Victims of domestic violence and stalking who apply to crime victim compensation may be eligible to have some of their crime-related expenses reimbursed, such as lost wages, medical bills and mental health counseling, and lock changes. Some states may assist with relocation expenses for safety.

 Each program, however, has different requirements and benefits. Most states require a police report, but some will also accept a protection order, a SANE exam (rape kit), or a neglect petition (for victims of child abuse and neglect). For more information on the program in your state, visit the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards.