What happens if the order is violated?

Once a 209A Order is issued, violation of certain terms of the Order is a criminal offense. Violations of orders to refrain from abuse, to have no contact, and to vacate a household, multiple family dwelling or workplace, can be prosecuted criminally under chapter 209A. If the abuser violates the order, call the police immediately. Show the Order to the police and explain how it was violated ( a punch, slap, threat; entering your house or apartment or refusing to vacate; or, any contact with you at home or your workplace, either in person, by telephone or mail). The police must arrest the abuser if they believe or can see that the terms of the Order were violated. If you do not call the police, you may be able to file an application for a criminal complaint on your own at the Clerk's Office in the District Court. A Victim/Witness Advocate can assist you with that process.

If you put yourself in contact with the abuser, he is vulnerable to arrest. Therefore, if you want any terms of the order to no longer apply, you should return to court and ask that the order be modified or vacated.

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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?