Understanding Restraining Orders and Your Legal Rights in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, a restraining order—commonly referred to as a 209A Protective Order—is a powerful legal tool used to protect individuals from abuse, harassment, threats, or violence. Issued by a judge, a restraining order can prohibit a wide range of actions and is enforceable across state lines, regardless of differing state laws.

Whether you’re seeking protection from someone who poses a threat or defending against an order you believe is unjustified, the stakes are high. At Briones Law Group, we help clients understand their rights, navigate the restraining order process, and fight for fair outcomes in court.

Types of Restraining Orders in Massachusetts
There are two primary types of restraining orders that can be issued under Massachusetts law:

No Contact Order
This is the most common form of a restraining order. It prohibits the defendant from making any physical, verbal, or electronic contact with the individual seeking protection. These orders are typically filed in cases involving domestic violence, stalking, or harassment.

A No Contact Order may include conditions such as:

• No communication by text, email, phone, or social media

• Prohibited from entering the home, workplace, or other locations frequented by the protected party

• Must remain a certain distance away, typically from 10 feet to 100 yards

• Firearm surrender, preventing the defendant from possessing or purchasing a gun

• In some cases, no contact with children may also be ordered

In addition to prohibiting contact, the order can impose affirmative obligations on the defendant, such as:

• Financial support, including mortgage or vehicle payments

• Mandatory counseling or anger management classes

• Restrictions on access to shared property, including homes, vehicles, and bank accounts

Abuse Prevention Order
An Abuse Prevention Order is designed to protect individuals from physical harm, sexual abuse, or threats of violence. While this type of order may allow limited contact, it strictly prohibits the defendant from:

• Causing or attempting to cause bodily harm

• Forcing or coercing sexual activity through threats, duress, or violence

These orders are frequently used in situations involving domestic partners, spouses, or family members, but can be filed against anyone who poses a danger to your safety, including roommates, former partners, or relatives.

Violating a Restraining Order Is a Crime
It is critical to understand that violating any provision of a restraining order is considered a criminal offense in Massachusetts. Even if the defendant disagrees with the order or believes it was issued unfairly, failure to comply with its terms can result in arrest, fines, and jail time.

Some individuals may view restraining orders as merely symbolic, but the courts do not. Violations are aggressively prosecuted, and even a single phone call, text message, or unintentional encounter can lead to criminal charges.

How Briones Law Group Can Help
Whether you are seeking protection from someone threatening your safety or defending against an order that could impact your job, family, or future, you need an experienced attorney who understands Massachusetts restraining order law.

We assist clients in:

• Filing or defending against 209A Protective Orders

• Representing you at restraining order hearings in District and Probate Court

• Explaining your rights and obligations under the order

• Developing a strategy to defend against violations of restraining orders

• Helping you avoid criminal consequences while protecting your legal interests

Attorney Briones has over 20 years of experience successfully representing clients in restraining order and criminal defense cases. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved and provide respectful, results-driven representation every step of the way.

Don’t Face This Alone—Let Us Fight for You
Whether you’re the petitioner or the defendant, a restraining order can significantly impact your life. Let Briones Law Group help you protect your safety, your rights, and your future. Contact us today for a confidential case evaluation and let us begin building the legal strategy you need.