What is the difference between a no contact order and a restraining order in Massachusetts?
Asked by: Mrs. Katelynn Crist II | Last update: November 30, 2025Score: 5/5 (35 votes)
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.
Is a no contact order the same as a restraining order in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, a “no contact order” and a “restraining order” refer to similar types of protective orders, but they are used in different contexts. A “no contact order” is often issued in criminal cases and specifically prohibits the defendant from contacting the victim.
Is a no contact order worse than a restraining order?
Despite this seemingly less severe initial punishment, no contact orders carry more intense final penalties. If a no contact order is violated, the violator may spend up to six months in jail and may also be required to pay the attorney fees for the other party.
How long does a no contact order last in Massachusetts?
Yes, a restraining order can be permanent after one year. At the first hearing, a judge may issue the Massachusetts 209A Order for up to one year. After one year there is another hearing scheduled. At the one-year hearing, a judge may make the restraining order permanent.
What are the three types of protection?
There are three types of orders of protection that can provide victims with legal protections to support their safety—emergency protective orders, temporary restraining orders, and permanent restraining orders.
Is a No Contact Order the Same as a Restraining Order
What is it called when you legally have to stay away from someone?
Restraining orders. There are different types of restraining orders. Most restraining orders can order a person to not contact someone and stay away from them. Some restraining orders can include more protection, like order a person to move out, or include protections for your children or other family members.
What are the 4 levels of protection?
There are 4 levels of protection and associated protective equipment as designated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) workers: Level A, Level B, Level C and Level D. The levels range from the most protective (Level A) to the least protective (Level D).
What do you need to get a no contact order?
You and your advocate will go to the courthouse and will ask for a petition for a no contact order. The petition you file will be dependent on the relationship you have with the offender. The clerk will give you a paper petition to fill out. You are exempt from filing online due to the sensitive nature of the case.
What qualifies as harassment in Massachusetts?
''Harassment'', (i) 3 or more acts of willful and malicious conduct aimed at a specific person committed with the intent to cause fear, intimidation, abuse or damage to property and that does in fact cause fear, intimidation, abuse or damage to property; or (ii) an act that: (A) by force, threat or duress causes ...
Can you file a restraining order on someone who keeps texting you?
Restraining Orders and Texting
To obtain a restraining order for texting, you must demonstrate that the text messages constitute harassment, threats, or stalking. This may include persistent unwanted messages, explicit threats, or messages that cause significant emotional distress.
Is there an alternative to a restraining order?
The first alternative is a domestic violence no contact order issued by a judge as part of a domestic violence criminal proceeding. If you are a victim of a domestic violence crime (assault, threats, malicious mischief, etc.)
What is the difference between a no contact order and an injunction?
Simply put a restraining order is temporary. The injunction is something ordered by the judge that can either be permanent or for a specific period of time.
How do you prove emotional distress in Massachusetts?
The defendant's negligence caused the plaintiff emotional distress. To prove this, a personal injury attorney may need the testimony or reports of mental health providers such as psychologists or psychiatrists to confirm the claimed distress and how it has affected that person's life.
What are 3 actions that are considered harassment?
Offensive conduct may include, but is not limited to, offensive jokes, slurs, epithets or name calling, physical assaults or threats, intimidation, ridicule or mockery, insults or put-downs, offensive objects or pictures, and interference with work performance.
Can I record a conversation if I feel threatened in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts prohibits the recording, interception, use or disclosure of any conversation, whether in person or over the telephone, without the permission of all the parties. The state also prohibits the recording and disclosure of images intercepted in violation of its hidden camera laws.
How long do most no contact orders last?
After having a court hearing, a judge can grant you a “restraining order after hearing” that can last up to five years. However, if there is no termination date on the order, the order will last three years from the date it was issued.
What is the highest level of personal protection?
Level A protection is required when the greatest potential for exposure to hazards exists, and when the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection is required.
What are the 4 P's of protection?
Employers should help workers understand the four Ps of safety — people, places, personal protective equipment (PPE) and personal accountability.
What are the three types of eye protection?
Three main types of eye protection exist, each with advantages and disadvantages. They are safety glasses, goggles, and face shields. Safety Glasses: Safety glasses have shatter-resistant lenses made of materials like polycarbonate or propionate plastic with side shields.
Can I legally stop someone from contacting me?
To get someone to stop harassing you, you can start with a cease and desist harassment letter. If you are not in immediate danger, send the person a cease and desist letter and keep copies for yourself.
How to get someone to leave you alone legally?
There are options. You may want to get a no-contact order or a protection order. If simply asking your ex to leave you alone has no impact, legal action may be the only thing they'll respect. This is especially important if they have ever threatened you and if you feel like you or your children are in danger.
What is the legal document to make someone stay away?
Like other restraining orders, a stay away order generally is given when someone has experienced or has reason to fear physical and emotional harm from the party receiving the order.
How do I prove harassment in Massachusetts?
You must prove that the defendant "harassed" you to obtain a harassment Prevention Order. This usually involves proving that the defendant caused you to feel that you were under imminent danger of harm by either force, threat, or duress.
Can you sue for emotional abuse in Massachusetts?
In addition to bystander claims, you can also file a lawsuit in Massachusetts for direct negligent infliction of emotional distress. However, such claims are rare, and you should discuss your case with our Boston personal injury lawyers before proceeding.
What evidence do you need for emotional distress?
Medical records that attest to the victim's injuries or diagnosis of mental health conditions, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, are among the most important pieces of evidence that prove emotional distress in court.