Coburn v. Coburn

CHASANOW, Judge.

We are called on in this case to determine whether evidence of alleged prior abusive acts is admissible in a protective order hearing pursuant to Maryland’s domestic violence statute, Maryland Code (1984, 1991 Repl.Vol., 1995 Supp.), Family Law Article, §§ 4-501 through 4-516. We hold that such evidence is admissible in light of the remedial purpose of the domestic violence statute and affirm the decision of the circuit court.

I

The instant case arose out of a petition for protection from domestic violence filed by Marcia Coburn against her estranged husband, William E. Coburn,…