How to fight a restraining order in MA?

Asked by: Lola Little  |  Last update: May 11, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (65 votes)

If the order has been issued against you, you will receive notice either by phone or in person. You will also be given a two-party hearing date, generally within ten days. You can contest the restraining order at that two-party hearing, either with or without an attorney.

How to get a restraining order dropped in Massachusetts?

If you want to drop your restraining order, you need to go back to the court that issued your order and fill out a request (motion) to dismiss the order.

Can you appeal a restraining order in Massachusetts?

If a c. 209A order has issued against you, you have the right to appeal that order even though there is no provision in the statute itself for appeal by either party.

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 ...

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.

5 Easy Hacks to Win Your Restraining Order Hearing (+ FREE class on how to win)

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What to say in court for a restraining order?

I would consider any contact in the future to be a violation.” Tell the court why you would like the temporary restraining order injunction. Examples: “I want this injunction because…” “I fear for my child's safety.” “My child's life is in danger, I am afraid he or she will be hurt…”

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.

How to win an order of protection hearing?

The judge needs to know what your abuser has done and why you are afraid. Tell the court where and when the abuse happened. Show the judge the proof you brought. Stick to what you wrote in your petition.

Does the victim have the burden of proof?

State must prove that the perpetrator is guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Victim must prove that it is more likely than not that the perpetrator is liable. Perpetrator is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

How do you fight a restraining order in Massachusetts?

If the order has been issued against you, you will receive notice either by phone or in person. You will also be given a two-party hearing date, generally within ten days. You can contest the restraining order at that two-party hearing, either with or without an attorney.

What is a false restraining order?

A false order of protection refers to an instance where an individual knowingly makes false allegations or provides fabricated evidence to obtain a protective order against another person.

Are restraining orders public record in Massachusetts?

However, completed cases are typically part of the public court records, which can be accessed at the courthouse or via the Massachusetts court system's online portal, MassCourts. Additionally, local police departments can access details about active Restraining Orders for enforcement purposes.

What are good reasons to drop a restraining order?

A significant change in circumstances, such as improved behavior, completion of anger management or counseling programs, or evidence that the risk of violence has diminished, may provide grounds for seeking the dismissal of a restraining order.

How to successfully recant a domestic violence statement?

Defense attorneys play a crucial role when a victim recants their statement. They can challenge the credibility of the original statement and argue for the dismissal of charges. However, they must do this carefully, respecting the legal rights of all parties involved.

How to get a domestic violence case dismissed?

There are 8 ways to get a domestic violence case dismissed in California:
  1. Insufficient Evidence.
  2. Violation of Rights.
  3. Self-Defense or Defense of Others.
  4. Victim Recantation.
  5. Diversion Programs.
  6. Civil Compromise.
  7. Pretrial Motions.
  8. Prosecutorial Discretion.

How to persuade a judge?

Judges expect advocates to present arguments completely and honestly. Completely means knowing the record as well the adversary's con- tentions. Honestly means presenting all information accurately, even if that requires the advocate to concede some points. a trial or appellate judge is to win.

Why is it so hard to get a restraining order?

If there isn't any current harassment, the judge won't grant the person's request. Unfortunately, courts have to be picky in their screening process because of too many people taking advantage of the court system by getting restraining orders because of personal vendettas.

What happens if the petitioner does not show up to a restraining order hearing?

If you miss your court hearing for a temporary restraining order in California, the court may dismiss your request for the order due to your absence. When a petitioner does not show up, the court often interprets this as a lack of interest or necessity in pursuing the restraining order.

Do you know if you have a restraining order against you?

Under California law, if your wife obtains a restraining order against you, you will be officially served with the order. This means that a process server, sheriff, or other authorized individual will deliver the documents to you in person.

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.

Does harassment go on your record?

Will a Harassment Charge Stay on My Record? A conviction for harassment can stay on your record and cause issues for you in the future. Having a criminal record can make punishments for any future convictions more severe, but this conviction will also show up in background checks.

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.

How to get a restraining order off record?

If the person who filed the order lets it expire, and you did not violate the order during the time it was in place, you can be eligible to have the order expunged from your record, at which point it should not show up on a background check.

Does a restraining order show up on a cori check in Massachusetts?

(CORI does not include restraining order cases or non-criminal matters such as DCF “51A” reports of child abuse or neglect.