Family law issues are often emotionally charged and highly personal. Unfortunately, in some cases, this behavior can cross the line into harassment. Whether you’re going through a divorce, custody battle, or separation, understanding what is considered harassment under Maryland or D.C. family law is essential.
At the Law Offices of Tina Sharma, we help individuals protect themselves and their families from unwanted, harmful, or threatening behavior. If you’re unsure whether your experience qualifies as harassment—or if someone is accusing you of it—we’re here to provide clarity and legal support.
In this blog, we’ll break down what is considered harassment in Maryland and Washington, D.C., and how it applies in the context of family law disputes.
1. Defining Harassment Under the Law
In both Maryland and Washington D.C., harassment involves a pattern of unwanted behavior intended to alarm, annoy, or harass another person. This can include:
- Repeated phone calls, texts, or emails
- Uninvited appearances at home, work, or school
- Threats (direct or implied)
- Spreading false information or rumors
- Following or surveilling someone
The behavior must typically be intentional, repeated, and without a lawful purpose. One isolated incident is usually not enough to qualify as legal harassment, though it may still be concerning or inappropriate.
2. Harassment in the Context of Family Law
Harassment often comes up during family law proceedings, especially in emotionally charged situations like:
- Divorce or legal separation
- Child custody and visitation disputes
- Domestic violence or abuse allegations
In these cases, harassment can be used as evidence of:
- An unsafe or hostile environment for children
- Coercion or control over a partner or co-parent
- Violations of no-contact orders or protective orders
Even digital communication—such as aggressive texts or social media posts—can be considered harassment if it fits the legal criteria.
3. What Counts as Harassment in Maryland
Under Maryland law, harassment is addressed under both civil and criminal statutes. Specifically:
- Criminal Harassment (Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-803): Involves a malicious course of conduct that alarms or seriously annoys another person, continues after reasonable warning, and serves no legitimate purpose.
- Telephone Misuse or Electronic Harassment: Sending repeated messages or calls with the intent to harass is also a criminal offense.
- Peace Orders and Protective Orders: Victims can seek court intervention to stop the harassment and gain protection.
If the harassment includes threats, stalking, or physical harm, it may rise to the level of a more serious charge, like stalking or assault.
4. What Counts as Harassment in Washington, D.C.
D.C. defines harassment similarly, but with slight variations. According to D.C. Code:
- Criminal Harassment (D.C. Code § 22-3133): Requires that the conduct is intentional, and would cause a reasonable person to feel seriously alarmed, disturbed, or frightened.
- Intrafamily Offenses: Includes harassment between family members or romantic partners, even if there’s no physical violence.
- Civil Protection Orders (CPO): Victims of harassment can petition the court for a CPO, which may include no-contact orders and other restrictions.
Harassment in Washington, D.C. doesn’t always involve physical contact. Psychological manipulation, threats, or repeated intimidation can also qualify.
5. Examples of Harassment in Family Law Cases
Every situation is different, but here are some common examples of behavior that may be considered harassment during family law disputes:
- Showing up repeatedly at an ex-spouse’s home or job without invitation or cause
- Sending dozens of texts a day, especially after being asked to stop
- Using children as messengers or making inappropriate comments to them about the other parent
- Posting threats or defamatory comments online
- Contacting a partner’s friends or employer to damage their reputation
If a pattern of behavior causes emotional distress, interferes with your life, or threatens your safety, it may qualify as harassment under Maryland or D.C. law.
6. Legal Remedies for Victims of Harassment
If you are experiencing harassment, you have legal options. In Maryland and D.C., victims can seek:
- Protective Orders or Civil Protection Orders (CPOs)
- Peace Orders (Maryland only, for non-domestic relationships)
- Temporary restraining orders
- Criminal charges, if appropriate
Protective orders can include:
- No-contact provisions
- Stay-away orders (home, work, school)
- Custody or visitation limitations
- Counseling requirements for the abuser
Our attorneys can help you prepare and file the necessary petitions and represent you at hearings.
7. What If You’re Accused of Harassment?
Being accused of harassment—especially in a family law case—can be frightening and damaging. You should:
- Take the accusation seriously
- Avoid further contact with the accuser
- Gather documentation to support your version of events
- Work closely with an experienced attorney
Even if you believe your actions were justified, the court may view them differently. Hiring an experienced family domestic violence lawyer is essential to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.
8. How Harassment Affects Custody and Divorce Cases
Harassment allegations can significantly impact the outcome of family law cases. Judges will consider whether a parent:
- Creates a toxic or unsafe environment
- Uses intimidation or threats to gain custody leverage
- Fails to co-parent in good faith
In extreme cases, harassment can result in:
- Supervised visitation
- Loss of custody
- Changes to existing parenting plans
- Orders for counseling or anger management
Courts always aim to protect the best interests of the child, and repeated harassment undermines that goal.
9. When to Speak to a Family Law Attorney
If you’re unsure whether certain actions qualify as harassment—or if you need help dealing with someone who is harassing you—it’s time to speak with an attorney. Our team can:
- Help you document incidents
- File for protective orders or legal motions
- Respond to false or exaggerated claims
- Protect your parental and personal rights in court
Time is often critical in harassment situations. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Let Us Help You Navigate Harassment and Family Law
Harassment can have a lasting emotional and legal impact, especially when it occurs during a family law dispute. Whether you need protection or defense, the Law Offices of Tina Sharma is here to help. We serve clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C., with personalized, compassionate legal support.
Call us today at (202) 875-7462 or visit https://tinasharmalaw.com/contact/ to schedule a confidential consultation.
