How Protection Orders Can Help in Harassment or Abuse Situations

When you’re dealing with harassment or abuse, feeling safe is a priority. In Massachusetts, Protection Orders are legal tools designed to provide safety and peace of mind. Depending on the relationship between the people involved, there are two main types of Protection Orders available.

To learn more, you can also listen to our recent podcast episode on this topic.

1. Domestic Restraining Orders (209A Orders)

Domestic Restraining Orders are the most common type of Protection Order in cases involving harassment or domestic violence. However, these orders are only available to individuals with specific kinds of relationships. You may qualify for a Domestic Restraining Order if you and the other person:

  • Are or were married
  • Are or were living together
  • Are or were related by blood or marriage
  • Have a child together
  • Are or were in a “substantive dating relationship”

These orders are meant to protect people from threats, violence, or abuse within close personal or family relationships.

2. Harassment Prevention Orders (258E Orders)

If your situation doesn’t involve one of the qualifying relationships above, you may still be eligible for a Harassment Prevention Order.

These are often used in cases involving:

  • Neighbor disputes
  • Coworkers
  • Acquaintances
  • Any other non-domestic relationship where serious harassment or threats are present

In some situations, a Harassment Prevention Order can even be used instead of a Domestic Restraining Order. For example, in a recent case at our firm, we pursued this alternative to better meet the unique needs of the client.

Do Protection Orders Really Work?

Some people wonder whether Protection Orders are actually effective. Research has shown that they can make a significant difference:

  • In 50–85% of cases, the protection order successfully keeps the harasser or abuser away from the victim.
  • These orders often provide a sense of safety and relief, and can also help to de-escalate a volatile situation by creating a legally enforced cooling-off period.

Need Help? You’re Not Alone

If you’re facing a situation that may require legal protection, know that help is available. The legal system in Massachusetts offers powerful tools to help protect your safety and well-being—and you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

Call or text Contant Law at 617-227-8383. We’re here to help you understand your rights and guide you through obtaining the right kind of Protection Order.

Put Contant in your contacts. When safety matters, preparation makes all the difference.