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HPO/RO

In Massachusetts, a restraining order is also called a 209A order or abuse prevention order.

A person can obtain a restraining order in court against certain types of family or household members or dating partners who are abusing them.  In an urgent situation, that person can seek an emergency restraining order for up to 10 days.  Whether or not there is an emergency order, there will be a hearing scheduled with notice to the accused.  The parties have an opportunity to be heard in court.  The judge will decide whether to issue the restraining order for a longer period of time and what the conditions of the order will be.  Restraining orders may be extended.

The court may order the accused to have no contact with or to stay away from the victim, stay away from certain locations, not abuse the victim, and surrender firearms.  The court may also make custody and support orders regarding any children involved.

A violation of a restraining order is a criminal offense.

In Massachusetts, the court can issue a harassment prevention order against someone who sexually assaulted or stalked another person, or who repeatedly and intentionally threatened, abused, or intimidated another person or caused damage to their property.

In an urgent situation, that person can seek an emergency order for up to 10 days.  Whether or not there is an emergency order, there will be a hearing scheduled with notice to the accused.  The parties have an opportunity to be heard in court.  The judge will decide whether to issue the harassment prevention order for a longer period of time and what the conditions of the order will be.  Harassment prevention orders may be extended.

The court may order the accused to have no contact with or to stay away from the victim, stay away from certain locations, not abuse or harass the victim, and pay restitution to the victim.

A violation of a harassment prevention order is a criminal offense.

OneLaw represents plaintiffs and defendants in Harassment Prevention Order and Restraining Order proceedings, which often involve evidentiary hearings with testimony and material evidence on short notice. We provide the efficient preparation and compassionate advice required to be effective in the courtroom.