What is Legally Considered Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, harassment is legally defined as three or more acts aimed at a specific person that are willful and malicious, causing fear, intimidation, abuse, or damage to property. This can include threats, physical violence, property damage, or a pattern of conduct that seriously alarms or annoys the victim, with no legitimate purpose. The victim […]
What Evidence is Needed to Prove a Case of Harassment in Massachusetts?
To prove a case of harassment in Massachusetts, a plaintiff must demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant’s actions meet the legal definition of harassment. Harassment prevention orders can be sought under General Laws Chapter 258E, and plaintiffs may request an order if they have experienced three or more acts that were […]
What Can You Do About Verbal Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, if you’re experiencing verbal harassment, you can seek a Harassment Prevention Order, also known as a 258E order. This court order is designed to protect individuals from harassment regardless of the relationship with the harasser. Harassment is legally defined as three or more acts of willful and malicious conduct aimed at a person […]
What Can the Police Do About Harassing Texts in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, harassing texts can be addressed by the police under the criminal harassment statute (MGL c. 265, § 43A). Victims can file a police report, and officers can investigate the situation. If the texts are threatening or involve repeated harassment, the sender may be charged with criminal harassment, which can result in fines, imprisonment, […]
What Are the Rules for a Restraining Order in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, a Restraining Order, also known as a protective order, can be obtained if a person has experienced abuse or fears imminent serious physical harm from a family or household member. Abuse includes: physical harm, attempts to harm, causing fear of imminent serious physical harm, or forced sexual relations. You may also get a […]
What Are Examples of Harassment Statements in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, harassment can include threats, physical violence, property damage, or actions that are intended to control or intimidate another person. Examples are persistent unwanted contact, following someone, or direct verbal threats. Harassment becomes criminal when it is intended to cause and does cause fear, intimidation, abuse, or damage to property. https://youtu.be/u0OwKVSj_-0?rel=0 Introduction to Harassment […]
How Many Calls Does it Take to be Considered Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, there isn’t a specific number of calls defined in the law that automatically constitutes harassment. Instead, harassment is generally determined by the nature and circumstances of the behavior. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 43A, a person commits criminal harassment if they engage in a “knowing pattern of conduct or series […]
How Do You Deal With Someone Harassing You in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, if you are experiencing harassment, consider these steps: Document the Harassment: Keep a record of all incidents, including dates, times, and any witnesses. Contact Law Enforcement: Report the harassment to your local police department. They can guide you on the possibility of filing charges. Seek a Harassment Prevention Order: Massachusetts law allows you […]
How Do I Extend a Restraining Order in Massachusetts?
To extend a restraining order in Massachusetts, you need to ask for an extension on the day the current order expires. The order you currently have has an expiration date on it. If you want to extend it, you have to go before a judge where you will explain why you still feel threatened and […]
Do Police Do Anything About Online Harassment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, police take online harassment seriously. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 43A, harassment is punishable by fines and imprisonment. This includes online behaviors that involve repeated communications aimed to intimidate, annoy, or alarm an individual. Victims can file for a Harassment Prevention Order, and if violated, law enforcement can take action. The […]