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Do I Need a Lawyer for a Restraining Order in Massachusetts?

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If you’re looking to file a restraining order or defend against a restraining order, you need a lawyer to represent you.  A restraining order lawyer can protect your rights.

A restraining order is a court order prohibiting one person from contacting another person, abusing them, and coming near them, along with many other possible conditions. These orders are sometimes known as a 209A order (after the section of law) or an abuse prevention order.

209A orders only apply to family members, while a harassment prevention order protects people regardless of relationship.  A restraining order lawyer can help you with either situation.

If you have been served with an abuse prevention order or a restraining order, it’s critical to contact a restraining order defense attorney to help defend you. A restraining order can have critical consequences, such as loss of your gun rights, eviction from your home, and restriction of your movement.

​Restraining orders can be issued for a shorter period of time ex parte, meaning without the other party being heard. A one-year restraining order or permanent restraining order is generally only issued after a two-party hearing. A domestic violence defense attorney can help you defend against these restraining orders and help you present your defense.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer for a Restraining Order?

​A restraining order hearing can be a critical part of your defense for a domestic violence charge as well. It provides a crucial chance to cross-examine your accuser and determine their credibility. The record of this cross-examination can serve as an important part of your later defense.

​An attorney can help you defend against the restraining order, present documents on your behalf, and investigate the case. While I can’t guarantee that I will win, I guarantee that I will fight as hard I can.

​Violation of a restraining order is a misdemeanor that can be punished with jail time up to two and a half years. If you’re accused of violating a restraining order, you could be summoned for a clerk magistrate hearing or you could be immediately arrested.​

A lawyer can also help file a restraining order. While you can file the paperwork yourself in district court, a restraining order attorney can help present the evidence.

If you have been served with a domestic violence 209A restraining order you need a lawyer to represent you. Call me today at (617) 295-7500. It’s critical that we get started on your defense right away.

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Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney.  Please do not rely on anything on this page as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation.  Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Boston Attorney

The court system is stressful, whether you’re being charged with a crime, being sued, suing someone, or fighting for your ability to stay and work in this country. You need someone who appreciates this and can dedicate the time not only to represent you effectively in court but to guide you through the process.

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