How to Get a 209A Abuse Prevention Order in Massachusetts

Understanding a 209A Order

A 209A order is a protective court order designed to prevent domestic abuse and harassment by restricting the abuser's actions toward the survivor. It is a crucial legal tool to enhance the survivor's immediate safety.

Who Can Apply

Any individual who is a victim or at risk of domestic abuse or harassment can apply for a 209A order. This includes spouses, former spouses, persons living together or who have lived together, or persons who have a child in common.

Temporary Order, Service, and Full Hearing

The process generally begins with filing for a temporary 209A order, which the court may grant quickly to ensure immediate safety. This temporary order is then served to the respondent, who must be formally notified. A full court hearing usually follows within a short timeframe, allowing both parties to present their case.

Relief Survivors May Seek

The order can provide various protections such as prohibiting the abuser from contacting or entering the survivor's home, workplace, or school; granting temporary custody of children; and ordering the abuser to vacate shared housing. Survivors can also request counseling or treatment requirements for the abuser.

General Duration

The duration of a 209A order varies but often lasts from one year up to a longer period as determined by the court. Extensions may be granted based on the survivor's continuing safety needs.

For further guidance and resources to support survivors through this process, please visit dv.support.