Massachusetts Criminal Law Process
Navigating the Massachusetts Criminal Law Process Welcome! If you find yourself navigating the Massachusetts criminal law process, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. I’m here to help you understand each step, from arrest to post-trial options, and to ensure you have the knowledge to make informed decisions. This guide will cover the entire criminal process, providing […]
What Is Breaking and Entering in Massachusetts?
Breaking and entering in Massachusetts is defined as the act of entering a building, vehicle, or ship without permission with the intent to commit a felony. It typically involves force, but even minimal actions, such as opening an unlocked door, can qualify. The intent to commit a felony is key to the charge. Depending on […]
How to Bail Someone Out of Jail in Massachusetts
Introduction: Navigating the Bail Process Bailing someone out of jail can be a confusing and stressful experience. Understanding the bail process is essential to ensuring your loved one’s release and compliance with court requirements. This guide will help you navigate the bail system in Massachusetts, offering practical advice and insights to make the process as […]
Understanding Bail in a Massachusetts
Introduction to Bail in Massachusetts When an accused person is arrested, understanding the bail process is essential. Bail allows an arrested person to be released from custody while awaiting trial. In Massachusetts, bail can involve various factors, including the nature of the criminal charges and the defendant’s criminal record. Knowing the intricacies of the bail […]
How to Get a Restraining Order for a Minor in Massachusetts
To get a restraining order for a minor in Massachusetts, follow these steps: Determine Eligibility: Confirm the minor qualifies for a restraining order due to abuse, harassment, or threats. File a Complaint: Go to the nearest District Court, Probate and Family Court, or Juvenile Court. Complete Forms: Fill out the necessary forms, including the Complaint […]
Can You Get in Trouble for Being Around Someone You Have a Restraining Order Against?
If you have a Restraining Order against someone, it typically requires the person restrained to stay a certain distance away from you and avoid contacting you. If you willingly spend time around this person, you might not necessarily be in legal trouble yourself, but you could be undermining the Order’s effectiveness. This can complicate legal […]
What Happens If a Restraining Order Is Not Served in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, if a Restraining Order is not served, it cannot be enforced against the defendant because they have not been officially notified of the order’s existence and its specific terms. The order is considered active once issued by the court, but law enforcement and the courts cannot act on the order (e.g., arresting the […]
What Type of Behavior Is Considered Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, behavior considered harassment under 258E includes: Repetitive Conduct: Frequent, unwanted contact that causes fear or distress. Threats: Any communication or action that implies harm, physically or emotionally. Stalking: Repeatedly following, watching, or monitoring someone without consent. Unwanted Contact: Any form of communication or interaction after being asked to stop. Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual […]
What Qualifies as Harassment in MA?
In Massachusetts, harassment is legally defined as three or more acts of willful and malicious conduct aimed at a specific person which are intended to cause fear, intimidation, abuse, or damage to property. This definition includes behavior that seriously alarms or annoys the person, and would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress. […]
What Is the Meaning of Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, harassment is defined under General Laws Chapter 258E as three or more acts aimed at a specific person that are intended to cause, and do in fact cause, fear, intimidation, abuse, or damage to property. These acts could include, but are not limited to, threats, physical violence, or property damage. The intent is […]