How long does a restraining order last in mass?
Asked by: Aurelie VonRueden | Last update: December 26, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (64 votes)
Restraining orders that are extended past the temporary review date generally last for one year. If you believe that the judge is going to issue a restraining order against you, you could ask that the order be issued for a shorter period of time, such as three or six months.
How long is a restraining order good for in Massachusetts?
Long-term orders: A long-term abuse prevention order can be issued after the abuser is given notice and the chance to appear at a court hearing where you and the abuser will each have a chance to present evidence to the judge. If you can prove that you were abused, the judge can issue you an order for up to one year.
Are restraining orders permanent in Massachusetts?
How long does a restraining order last? A Massachusetts restraining order can be permanent. At the first hearing, it can be extended for up to one year. At the renewal hearing, a judge may make the order lifetime.
How do I get rid of a restraining order in Massachusetts?
What if I want to change or end the order? An abuse prevention order is a court order. That means that only a judge can change the order. The person who requested the order can't change or end the order without contacting the court and asking the judge to change the order.
Does a restraining order go on your record in Massachusetts?
While a restraining order will not be a part of your criminal record, it does become a part of your civil record, which can be accessed by law enforcement.
How Long Do Restraining Orders Last In Massachusetts?
How does a restraining order affect you in Massachusetts?
A major consequence is that the restraining order is likely to require you, the Defendant, to leave your home, if you live with the person who receives the order. If you have children, a restraining order could prevent you from getting custody of or having visitation with your children.
Can you look up restraining orders in MA?
In Massachusetts, you can look up a Restraining Order, but the specifics depend on whether the order is part of an open court case or a concluded one.
Can you fight a restraining order in Massachusetts?
It is extremely difficult to challenge a restraining order, but it is possible. No matter what the circumstances are, you need to fight a false restraining order issued with the help of an experienced attorney at the Bellotti Law Group, P.C.
Can you expunge a restraining order in Massachusetts?
In the 2006 case of Commissioner of Probation v. Adams, it was recognized that a judge has the inherent authority to expunge a record of an abuse violence registry system in the rare and limited circumstance that the judge finds the order was obtained through fraud on the court.
How long do most restraining orders last?
Once you turn in your request, a judge will decide quickly whether to grant temporary protection. The whole process can take a few weeks to months, depending on how complicated your case is. If the judge grants you a long-term restraining order, it can last up to five years.
What is the difference between a no contact order and a restraining order in Massachusetts?
Understanding the Basics
A protective order, commonly known as a restraining order, is issued by a court to protect a person from harm or harassment. In contrast, a no-contact order specifically regulates communication between individuals, often prohibiting contact through phone calls or text messages.
What is the statute for restraining orders in Massachusetts?
The abuse prevention law (Chapter 209A) is designed to protect victims from abuse. The abuse prevention law allows victims to ask for a court order to protect them. This is sometimes called a 209A order, abuse prevention order, restraining order, or protective order.
Can I reverse a restraining order?
In California, a restraining order can be canceled or "dismissed" before its expiration date if the protected party or the restrained party files a motion to dismiss with the court.
How long does a harassment charge stay on your record?
If you were accused of minor charges, chances are it will stay on your record for approximately two years. For example, trespassing and some forms of sexual harassment are considered misdemeanor offenses. These records will remain within your criminal history for about two years after the date of the incident occurred.
How do I terminate a restraining order in Massachusetts?
The process generally involves the person who requested the order (the plaintiff) filing a motion or request with the court to dismiss or vacate the order. This request must state the reasons why the plaintiff no longer needs the protection of the restraining order.
How long does a restraining order stay on your record in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, while a restraining order is a civil order, it appears on your criminal record permanently.
Can I sue someone for filing a false restraining order?
The victim of the false claim may file a civil lawsuit seeking damages for harm caused by the false allegations. The defendant may be required to compensate the victim for financial losses, emotional distress, and any other damages incurred as a result of the false order.
What proof do you need for a restraining order in Massachusetts?
A sworn statement (affidavit) describing the facts of a recent or past incident(s) of abuse is required on the application or complaint form for a restraining order. It is also important to provide information about the abuser, such as work address, telephone, birth date and social security number.
Can you get a restraining order for online messages?
If you are facing severe online abuse, you may be able to request that a judge issue a restraining order to prevent the perpetrator from further harassing you. Restraining orders can provide a concrete remedy against persistent online abuse.
What is the burden of proof for a restraining order in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the burden of proof for obtaining a restraining order, whether it's an Abuse Prevention Order under Chapter 209A, or a Harassment Prevention Order under Chapter 258E, is a “preponderance of the evidence.” This means you must demonstrate that it is more likely than not that you have been subjected to ...
Can you leave the state if you have a restraining order?
No, not if they're the restricted party! In California, judges usually issues regarding removal of any children from the courts jurisdiction, when they grant restraining orders. Leaving the state with the children is a serious violation of this order.
What are the different types of restraining orders in Massachusetts?
There are two types of restraining orders: abuse prevention orders (209A) and harassment prevention orders (258E).