What is the burden of proof for a restraining order in Massachusetts?
Asked by: Dr. Jarrett Hills | Last update: November 25, 2025Score: 4.9/5 (49 votes)
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 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.
Can a restraining order be dropped in Massachusetts?
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.
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 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.
What Is the Burden of Proof for a Restraining Order in Massachusetts?
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 do I 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.
How successful are restraining orders?
85% of abuse victims reported life improvement after taking out a restraining order.
Can someone get a restraining order without you knowing?
Myth: Once the judge approves the RO, the abuser must stay away immediately. Fact: RO's are NOT in effect until the abuser is notified. An abuser will not know there is a restraining order against them until the police serve them the paperwork. That could happen that same day or might not happen for several days.
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.
Can a restraining order be appealed in Massachusetts?
A defendant may appeal an order even if the order has expired. Such an appeal is not moot because the order has been entered in the Statewide Registry of Civil Restraining Orders and the defendant could be adversely affected by the record in the event of future applications for an order under G.L. c.
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 do you defend yourself against false accusations?
- Stay Calm and Gather Evidence. ...
- Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer. ...
- Challenge the Accuser's Credibility. ...
- Understand Your Rights. ...
- Prepare Your Defense. ...
- Consider Counterclaims. ...
- Don't Let False Allegations Fly — Contact Right Law Group.
How often are restraining orders false?
It can also include the mere threat of violence—if a person is accused of threatening to commit physical abuse or harassment, he or she may be slapped with a restraining order. As such, an estimated 70 percent of all restraining orders are thought to be trivial or false.
What is an example of civil harassment?
In general, civil harassment is abuse, threats of abuse, stalking, sexual assault, or serious harassment by someone you have not dated and do NOT have a close relationship with, like a neighbor, a roommate, or a friend (that you have never dated).
What must a restraint order contain?
A time limit must be written into every restraint order and the length of time is based on the age of the patient, the reason for restraint, and hospital policy. A restraint may be applied for no more than 24 hours. Patient behavior must be monitored and documented at least once every hour.
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 I talk to someone if I have a restraining order against them?
One of the primary restrictions imposed by a restraining order in California is prohibiting any form of contact between the individual subject to the order and the protected person. Contact can include direct communication, such as: Phone calls.
How to write an affidavit for a restraining order?
Your affidavit should say when and how the defendant abused you and why you are afraid of the defendant. Start with the most recent incident that is making you afraid. Often, the first question that a judge will ask you is what happened that day that made you come into court to ask for a restraining order.
Can you be accused of something without proof?
Not only is the prosecution required to prove its case before it can secure a conviction, but it must do so beyond a reasonable doubt. Generally, this means the prosecution's evidence must be so compelling and convincing that there is no reasonable doubt regarding your guilt in the jurors' minds.
Can you press charges against someone for making false accusations?
Yes. In California, making false accusations is a crime and can lead to serious legal consequences. Under Penal Code Section 148.5 , it is a misdemeanor to falsely report a crime to law enforcement.
How would you protect yourself from accusations of abuse?
- Avoid Promising to Keep Secrets. Never pledge to keep secrets.
- Mindful Physical Contact. Avoid initiating physical contact with a child.
- Strictly No Intimate Contact. ...
- Personal Information Is Private. ...
- Professional Boundaries on Social Media.
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.
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.