How can I get an order in District Court?

Should you decide to go to a District Court for a 209A Order, you may go to the District Court in the area where you live or, if you have fled to another area to avoid abuse, you may go to the District Court in the area where you now live (Massachusetts Barnstable County Court Locations). Go to the Clerk's Office in the court and ask for a "protective order" or a "209A Order," You will receive a packet of forms to complete as an application for a protective order.

In some courts, there may be a Court Advocate from a local battered women's service agency to help you with the form. A Victim/Witness Advocate from the District Attorney's Office is also usually available for assistance and to discuss the option of filing criminal charges against your abuser. Ask someone at the Clerk's Office to direct you to the District Attorney's Victim/ Witness Office for help. You do not have to file criminal charges in order to obtain a 209A Order. However, criminal charges can be helpful in holding a batterer responsible for criminal acts committed against you. If there is a criminal violation, the Court can also require a batterer to obtain counseling or other treatment.

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1. What is the legal definition of abuse?
2. What is a 209A Order?
3. How can I get a 209A Order?
4. How can I get an order in District Court?
5. What questions are asked on the form?
6. What relief can I ask for on the application?
7. What about child custody and visitation?
8. What happens next?
9. What will the judge do before speaking to you?
10. What is a ten day hearing?
11. What happens at the end of a year or end of the effective date?
12. What should you do if you want to change the terms of the order?
13. Can a minor obtain a 209A order?
14. What happens if the order is violated?
15. What happens if an arrest is made?
16. What crimes can be charged?
17. What happens after an arrest?
18. What happens at the arraignment?
19. What happens after the arraignment?
20. What is a certified A Batterer's Intervention Program?
21. Will the intervention stop the abuse?