The laws for Restraining Orders are found in Chapter 209A, and Harassment Prevention Orders are governed by Chapter 258E. Part of the service we offer is to take that list of statutes and turn them into plain language.  More importantly, we will help you understand how they apply to the facts of your case.

Defending Against Restraining and Harassment Prevention Orders

When we represent defendants in restraining order and harassment prevention order cases, our goal is to help the court see the full picture. These cases are often about more than just a disagreement; they can be a misunderstanding or an exaggerated claim that has spiraled out of control. Our job is to show the judge that they have not heard the whole story.

In these cases, every detail matters. We gather key evidence to ensure that your side of the story is told effectively. Whether it’s reviewing text messages, gathering records, showing photographs, or preparing you to testify, we take the time to dig deep and present a comprehensive defense. We’ve successfully handled these cases before and are ready to do the same for you.

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Helping Plaintiffs Fight for Protection

On the other side, we also help plaintiffs who need to file for a restraining or harassment prevention order. For many plaintiffs, filing an affidavit is only the first step. They may have never testified before, and the thought of standing in front of a judge can be intimidating. Our services give plaintiffs the chance to organize their thoughts, prepare for direct and cross-examination, and ensure that their evidence is presented in the right way.

If you’ve filed for an order because you need it, we fight for your rights. We’ll help you navigate the legal process, ensuring your voice is heard and your evidence is properly admitted, so you can protect yourself.

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The Legal Standard for Issuing a Restraining Order in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the legal standard for issuing a restraining order is that the plaintiff must demonstrate that they have have a reasonable anticipation of abuse or coercive control. This could include physical harm, threats, or other actions that create an immediate danger to the plaintiff’s safety or autonomy. The court will then review the evidence and determine if a restraining order is necessary to protect the plaintiff.


The Legal Standard for
Issuing a Harassment Prevention Order

To obtain a harassment prevention order, the plaintiff must show that they have been subjected to at least three separate acts of harassment, including threats, stalking, or other unwanted behaviors. The court will evaluate the nature of those allegations and decide whether a prevention order should issue to stop the behavior and protect the plaintiff from further harm.

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