Domestic Criminal Charges many times involve a charge of assault or assault and battery, and the use of Abuse Prevention and Harassment Prevent Orders found in Massachusetts General Laws 209A and 258E. It can also involve a direct arrest and/or an application for a show cause hearing in the District Court.

 

Both Chapter 209A and 258E orders should be taken seriously as these restrict freedom of movement, and if violated can lead to a jail sentence. The Court processes involved in these Orders is sophisticated and should be challenged as quickly as possible to prevent a permanent Order taking effect.

 

If a Show Cause hearing is involved, it should be challenged immediately with a full hearing. Many times criminal complaints can be avoided altogether with successful challenge at this early proceeding.