{"id":5467,"date":"2024-05-06T11:02:25","date_gmt":"2024-05-06T11:02:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.affordlaw.org\/?p=5467"},"modified":"2025-05-23T22:24:50","modified_gmt":"2025-05-23T22:24:50","slug":"violating-restraining-order-felony-massachusetts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/affordlaw.org\/staging\/2465\/violating-restraining-order-felony-massachusetts\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Violating a Restraining Order a Felony in Massachusetts?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"5467\" class=\"elementor elementor-5467\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ff4477c e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"ff4477c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5bebe64 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5bebe64\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In Massachusetts, violating a restraining order (whether it\u2019s a 209A Abuse Prevention Order or a 258E Harassment Prevention Order) is generally treated as a misdemeanor offense. However, if the underlying violation involves causing physical harm, threatening to harm, or using a deadly weapon, it can be prosecuted as a felony. The severity of the charges and potential penalties can depend on the circumstances of the violation and any previous violations or criminal history.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-37d09cc elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"37d09cc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/j9_0UI_1E-A?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f22cbc elementor-widget elementor-widget-boomdevs-toc-widget\" data-id=\"2f22cbc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;,&quot;mobile&quot;],&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_anchor_link_offset&quot;:0}\" data-widget_type=\"boomdevs-toc-widget.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t        \n            \n            <div class=\"fit_content\">\n                <div class=\"bd_toc_container\" data-fixedWidth=\"\">\n                    <div class=\"bd_toc_wrapper\" data-wrapperPadding=\"48px\">\n                        <div class=\"bd_toc_wrapper_item\">\n                            <div class=\"bd_toc_header active\" data-headerPadding=\"2px\">\n                                <div class=\"bd_toc_header_title\">\n                                    Table of Contents                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"bd_toc_switcher_hide_show_icon\">\n                                    <span class=\"bd_toc_arrow\"><\/span>                                <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"bd_toc_content list-type-number\">\n                                <div class=\"bd_toc_content_list \">\n                                    <div class='bd_toc_content_list_item'>    <ul>\n      <li class=\"first\">\n        <a href=\"#navigating-restraining-orders-in-massachusetts-protecting-yourself-and-understanding-the-legal-process\">Navigating Restraining Orders in Massachusetts: Protecting Yourself and Understanding the Legal Process<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#understanding-restraining-orders\">Understanding Restraining Orders<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#types-of-restraining-orders\">Types of Restraining Orders<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#legal-consequences-for-violating-restraining-orders\">Legal Consequences for Violating Restraining Orders<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#aggravating-factors-and-felony-charges\">Aggravating Factors and Felony Charges<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#legal-defense-for-victims\">Legal Defense for Victims<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#building-a-strong-legal-case\">Building a Strong Legal Case<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#navigating-the-legal-process\">Navigating the Legal Process<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#help-getting-a-restraining-order-in-massachusetts\">Help Getting a Restraining Order in Massachusetts<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n      <li class=\"last\">\n        <a href=\"#see-how-affordable-we-are\">See How Affordable We Are<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n<\/div>                                <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"layout_toggle_button\">\n                        <span class=\"bd_toc_arrow\"><\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n    \t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2599477 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2599477\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='navigating-restraining-orders-in-massachusetts-protecting-yourself-and-understanding-the-legal-process'  id=\"boomdevs_1\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Navigating Restraining Orders in Massachusetts: Protecting Yourself and Understanding the Legal Process<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f741c06 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f741c06\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Living under the threat of abuse or harassment can be terrifying, but in Massachusetts, there are legal measures in place to help ensure your safety and well-being. Restraining Orders, also known as protective orders, are powerful tools that can provide immediate protection from harm or harassment. Understanding the intricacies of Restraining Orders, the types available, and the legal consequences for violations is crucial for individuals facing abusive situations. This guide aims to empower you by providing comprehensive information on navigating the legal system effectively and seeking the protection they deserve.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6b1a57a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6b1a57a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='understanding-restraining-orders'  id=\"boomdevs_2\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Understanding Restraining Orders<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6f02e5b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6f02e5b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>A restraining order is a legal document issued by the court to <a href=\"_wp_link_placeholder\" data-wplink-edit=\"true\">protect you from harm or harassment by another person<\/a>. These orders establish specific conditions and restrictions intended to safeguard the safety and well-being of you and your family. In Massachusetts, Restraining Orders can be obtained in cases of domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dc141bc elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"dc141bc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='types-of-restraining-orders'  id=\"boomdevs_3\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Types of Restraining Orders<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-27525f0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"27525f0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/4GrAx_nw5rk?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e3f8ad9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e3f8ad9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Massachusetts recognizes several types of Restraining Orders, each tailored to address different forms of abuse or harassment:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Abuse Prevention Orders (APOs)<\/strong>: These orders are commonly sought in cases involving domestic violence, where the petitioner fears imminent serious physical harm from a household or family member.<\/li><\/ul><ul><li><strong>Harassment Prevention Orders (HPOs)<\/strong>: HPOs are sought in instances of harassment or stalking, where the petitioner has a reasonable fear of harm or intimidation from another individual.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>Understanding the specific type of restraining order applicable to your situation is crucial for ensuring the appropriate legal protection is in place.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4a2b824 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"4a2b824\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='legal-consequences-for-violating-restraining-orders'  id=\"boomdevs_4\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Legal Consequences for Violating Restraining Orders<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9141321 elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"9141321\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/q1rHQTp1HX8?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-004ec6d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"004ec6d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.affordlaw.org\/plaintiff-violates-restraining-order-massachusetts\/\">Violating a restraining order in Massachusetts<\/a> is a serious offense that can result in legal consequences for the perpetrator. The severity of the violation and subsequent penalties depend on various factors, including the nature of the violation and any aggravating circumstances involved.<\/p><ul><li><strong>Misdemeanor Violations<\/strong>: A first-time violation of a restraining order is often classified as a misdemeanor, which carries less severe penalties. Misdemeanor violations may result in fines, probation, or a jail term of up to 2 \u00bd years in the House of Correction.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Felony Violations<\/strong>: Repeat violations or those involving aggravating factors can escalate to felony charges, which carry harsher penalties. Aggravating factors may include prior convictions for similar offenses, violations involving threats of violence, or instances of physical harm inflicted on the protected party.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>Understanding the potential legal consequences of restraining order violations underscores the importance of adhering to the conditions outlined in the order.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5433078 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5433078\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='aggravating-factors-and-felony-charges'  id=\"boomdevs_5\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Aggravating Factors and <br>Felony Charges<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-55263cf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"55263cf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Certain factors can elevate a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.affordlaw.org\/what-considered-violation-restraining-order-massachusetts\/\">restraining order violation from a misdemeanor to a felony<\/a> in Massachusetts. These aggravating factors may include:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Prior Convictions<\/strong>: Individuals with prior convictions for similar offenses may face harsher penalties for restraining order violations.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Threats of Violence<\/strong>: Violations involving threats of violence or intimidation toward the protected party may be treated more severely.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Physical Harm<\/strong>: Instances where the protected party sustains physical harm as a result of the violation can lead to felony charges.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Weapon Possession<\/strong>: Violating a restraining order while in possession of a weapon may result in felony charges due to the increased potential for harm.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>Understanding these aggravating factors is essential for individuals seeking legal protection through Restraining Orders and for law enforcement and legal professionals tasked with enforcing and adjudicating these cases.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-eb89bb1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"eb89bb1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='legal-defense-for-victims'  id=\"boomdevs_6\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Legal Defense for Victims<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c6f9cef elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c6f9cef\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>For victims of abuse, seeking legal assistance and support is crucial for navigating the complexities of restraining order proceedings and ensuring their safety and well-being are prioritized. Legal defense options for victims may include:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Legal Representation<\/strong>: You may benefit from legal representation to help you in obtaining and enforcing Restraining Orders. Legal professionals can provide guidance on the legal process, help gather evidence, and represent the victim&#8217;s interests in court.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Victim Advocacy Services<\/strong>: Victim advocacy organizations and support services offer invaluable assistance to individuals navigating the legal system. These organizations provide emotional support, safety planning, and assistance with accessing resources such as shelters and counseling services.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>By seeking legal assistance and support, you can effectively assert your rights and pursue legal protection from your abuser.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5a36467 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5a36467\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='building-a-strong-legal-case'  id=\"boomdevs_7\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Building a Strong Legal Case<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6e8ab3f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6e8ab3f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>For victims of abuse seeking legal protection through Restraining Orders, building a strong legal case is essential for ensuring your safety and obtaining the necessary legal protection. Steps for building a strong legal case may include:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: You should document instances of abuse or harassment, including dates, times, and details of the incidents. Keeping a detailed record can provide valuable evidence in legal proceedings.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Witness Statements<\/strong>: Gathering witness statements from individuals who have observed instances of abuse or harassment can strengthen the victim&#8217;s case and corroborate their allegations.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Communication Records<\/strong>: Preserving communication records, such as text messages, emails, or voicemails, can provide additional evidence of harassment or threats.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>By diligently documenting and preserving evidence, you can strengthen your legal case and increase the likelihood of obtaining a restraining order.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1fec19c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1fec19c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='navigating-the-legal-process'  id=\"boomdevs_8\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Navigating the Legal Process<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8b9b932 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8b9b932\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Navigating the legal process surrounding Restraining Orders can be challenging, especially for individuals experiencing abuse or harassment. However, you should not have to face this challenge alone. Resources and support services are available to assist you in navigating the legal process, including:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Legal Assistance Programs<\/strong>: Many legal aid organizations and pro bono legal clinics offer free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals seeking protection through Restraining Orders.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><ul><li><strong>Victim Advocacy Organizations<\/strong>: Victim advocacy organizations provide comprehensive support services to individuals experiencing abuse or harassment, including assistance with navigating the legal system, safety planning, and access to resources.<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>By accessing these resources and support services, you can receive the assistance and guidance needed to navigate the legal process effectively and obtain the necessary legal protection.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-30c07d2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"30c07d2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='help-getting-a-restraining-order-in-massachusetts'  id=\"boomdevs_9\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Help Getting a Restraining Order in Massachusetts<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-36422ff elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"36422ff\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/LJTbn6MDwtg?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c1ef52f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c1ef52f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>If you&#8217;d like help getting a Restraining Order without paying an expensive attorney, we can help. With our Legal Coaching we can walk you through every step to make sure you&#8217;re ready for your hearing. The first thing to do is see if you qualify for a <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.affordlaw.org\/massachusetts-restraining-orders\/\"   title=\"Massachusetts Restraining Order\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">Massachusetts Restraining Order<\/a>. Click on the link below to see if you qualify for either type of Restraining Order.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e6b77c elementor-align-center elementor-hidden-mobile elementor-tablet-align-center elementor-hidden-tablet elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"3e6b77c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-xl\" href=\"https:\/\/www.affordlaw.org\/qualify-ro\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Do i qualify for a restraining order?<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c25a9cf elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c25a9cf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='conclusion'  id=\"boomdevs_10\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Conclusion<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9c27d1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9c27d1f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Navigating the legal process surrounding Restraining Orders in Massachusetts can be complex, especially for victims of abuse or harassment. However, by understanding the various types of Restraining Orders available, the legal consequences for violating them, and the support services and resources available, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and pursue legal recourse against your abuser. Remember, you&#8217;re not alone\u2014seeking assistance from legal professionals and support organizations can provide invaluable guidance and support during this challenging time.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fb2dc67 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"fb2dc67\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id='see-how-affordable-we-are'  id=\"boomdevs_11\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">See How Affordable We Are<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-738a914 elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"738a914\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/AEmIP8eEDII?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0c6f413 elementor-widget elementor-widget-shortcode\" data-id=\"0c6f413\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"shortcode.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-shortcode\"><div id=\"calculatorexpress_com-calculator\" style=\"text-align: center;\">Loading...<\/div>\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"https:\/\/calculatorexpress.com\/apps-js\/scripts_embed.js\"><\/script>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\">\r\n\tvar embed = '<style>iframe#fee-calc{width: 100%;min-width: 900px;border:none;}@media only screen and (max-width: 600px) {iframe#fee-calc { display: block; width:100%;min-width:280px; }<\/style><center><iframe id=\"fee-calc\" src=\"https:\/\/calculatorexpress.com\/API9\/Paul_Whelan_UW\/\" scrolling=\"no\" border=\"no\" onload=\"iFrameResize()\"><\/iframe><\/center>';\r\ndocument.getElementById('calculatorexpress_com-calculator').innerHTML = embed;\r\n<\/script><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a46281b elementor-widget elementor-widget-video\" data-id=\"a46281b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;youtube_url&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/youtu.be\\\/Y441G6781R8?rel=0&quot;,&quot;video_type&quot;:&quot;youtube&quot;,&quot;controls&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"video.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-wrapper elementor-open-inline\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-video\"><\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f6b3c0e elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"f6b3c0e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Your freedom is a<br> phone call away <br> 508-453-1250<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dd3a961 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"dd3a961\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 id='legal-disclaimer'  id=\"boomdevs_12\" class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Legal Disclaimer<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7710ff7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7710ff7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your specific circumstances and receive tailored guidance.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In Massachusetts, violating a restraining order (whether it\u2019s a 209A Abuse Prevention Order or a 258E Harassment Prevention Order) is generally treated as a misdemeanor offense. However, if the underlying violation involves causing physical harm, threatening to harm, or using a deadly weapon, it can be prosecuted as a felony. The severity of the charges [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5468,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5467","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-restraining-orders"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Is Violating a Restraining Order a Felony in Massachusetts? - Afford Law<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover the legal implications of violating a restraining order in Massachusetts. 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