What Is A 209A?
In Massachusetts an Abuse Prevention Order is called: a 209A Order, a protective order, or a restraining order. It is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member.
Who Can I Obtain A 209A Order Against?
A spouse or former spouse
A present or former household member
A relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage
The parent of your minor child
A person with whom you have or had a substantial dating relationship.
Where Can I Get A 209A Order?
A 209A Order can be obtained in any District Court, Superior Court, or Probate and Family Court in Massachusetts. An emergency 209A Order can be obtained from any Police Department after the normal business hours of the Court, such as on weekends and holidays. There is no charge for filing for a 209A.
How Can I Get An Order In District Court?
You may go to the District Court in the area where you live or, if you have fled to another area to avoid abuse, you may go to the District Court in the area where you now live.
You do not have to file criminal charges in order to obtain a 209A Order. However, criminal charges can be helpful in holding a batterer responsible for criminal acts committed against you. If there is a criminal violation, the Court can also require a
batterer to obtain counseling or other treatment.
An attorney is not a requirement to obtain a 209A order, however many victims of domestic violence are, understandably, fearful of the process. If you need me to assist you, please contact me.
In Massachusetts an Abuse Prevention Order is called: a 209A Order, a protective order, or a restraining order. It is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member.
Who Can I Obtain A 209A Order Against?
A spouse or former spouse
A present or former household member
A relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage
The parent of your minor child
A person with whom you have or had a substantial dating relationship.
Where Can I Get A 209A Order?
A 209A Order can be obtained in any District Court, Superior Court, or Probate and Family Court in Massachusetts. An emergency 209A Order can be obtained from any Police Department after the normal business hours of the Court, such as on weekends and holidays. There is no charge for filing for a 209A.
How Can I Get An Order In District Court?
You may go to the District Court in the area where you live or, if you have fled to another area to avoid abuse, you may go to the District Court in the area where you now live.
You do not have to file criminal charges in order to obtain a 209A Order. However, criminal charges can be helpful in holding a batterer responsible for criminal acts committed against you. If there is a criminal violation, the Court can also require a
batterer to obtain counseling or other treatment.
An attorney is not a requirement to obtain a 209A order, however many victims of domestic violence are, understandably, fearful of the process. If you need me to assist you, please contact me.