THE LEGAL DEFINITION OF ABUSE  

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines abuse as :

• actual physical abuse, or
  
  
• an attempt to harm another, or
  
  
• placing another in fear of serious physical harm, or
  
  
• causing another to engage in sexual relations by force, threat of force or duress
  

WHAT IS A 209A ORDER?

An Abuse Prevention Order, called a "209A Order," or a "protective order," or "restraining order," is a civil

court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm

from a family or household member. You can obtain an order against:

• a spouse or former spouse
  
  
• a present or former household member
  
  
• a relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage
  
  
• the parent of your minor child
  
  
• a person with whom you have or had a substantial dating relationship
  

WHERE CAN I GET A 209A ORDER?

A 209A Order can be obtained in any District Court, Superior Court , or Probate and Family Court in

Massachusetts. An emergency 209A Order can be obtained through any police department after

court hours, on weekends and holidays. You do not need a lawyer to file for a 209A Order and there is

no charge for filing.