Worcester 209A Restraining Order Defense Attorneys
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties
Being accused of violating a 209A restraining order, or facing arrest because a protective order was issued against you, is serious. A violation of a 209A order is a criminal offense in Massachusetts, separate from whatever situation led to the order in the first place, and it can mean immediate arrest, jail time, and a permanent mark on your record.
Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray defends clients facing 209A related criminal charges, and represents people at the hearing where an order is first requested, working to prevent an order from being issued unfairly in the first place.
How A 209a Case Becomes A Criminal Matter
A 209A order itself is a civil matter, but Massachusetts treats any violation of one as a crime. Common situations that lead to criminal charges include:
- Contact violations: Any phone call, text, email, or in person contact with the protected party, even if they reach out first, can be charged as a violation.
- Proximity violations: Being present at a home, workplace, or school named in the order, even accidentally, can lead to arrest.
- Third party contact: Contacting the protected party through a friend, family member, or social media can still count as a violation.
- Firearm surrender issues: Failing to surrender firearms or a license to carry as required by the order is its own separate offense.
Defending Against A 209a Order Being Issued
If someone has petitioned for a 209A order against you, you have the right to be heard at the hearing, typically within ten days of a temporary order being granted. This is your opportunity to challenge the allegations before the order becomes long term.
We help clients prepare for these hearings, gather evidence, and present their side clearly, since an order that is granted based on incomplete information can affect custody cases, gun rights, and employment long after the hearing ends.