Facing a Restraining Order? Our Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been served with a restraining order in Massachusetts, the consequences can be severe and immediate. A court-issued order may affect your freedom, employment, reputation, and even your ability to see your family. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our criminal defense law firm is equipped with experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorneys in Boston, including a former prosecutor, who understand how these cases are handled from both sides. With offices located in Boston and Salem, we defend individuals across Suffolk and Essex Counties with personalized attention and strategic representation.
Protecting Your Rights in Restraining Order Cases
A restraining order is not just a piece of paper—it can turn your life upside down. That’s why you need a Massachusetts defense attorney who knows how to respond quickly, effectively, and within the bounds of the law. Whether you’re facing an abuse prevention order under Mass. Gen. Laws Chapter 209A or a harassment prevention order under Mass. Gen. Laws Chapter 258E, our defense attorneys take your case personally and fight to preserve your rights. We focus on results—not promises—and our track record reflects that commitment.
Trusted Massachusetts Defense Attorney for Restraining Orders
Our team includes aggressive criminal defense attorneys and a former prosecutor, giving us a well-rounded perspective on how restraining order cases are investigated and prosecuted. We defend individuals in cities including Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus. Every client receives our full attention, and we take each case personally—because your future matters. If you’ve been served with a restraining order, you need a Massachusetts defense attorney who knows the law and isn’t afraid to fight back in court.
Types of Restraining Orders We Defend Against
Abuse Prevention Orders (209A)
Abuse prevention orders, also known as 209A orders, are civil protective orders issued to prevent further abuse between individuals in a domestic relationship, according to M.G.L. c. 209A, these orders can be filed by a spouse, family member, romantic partner, or household member who alleges abuse. Even though these orders are civil, they often carry criminal consequences if violated. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys understand the high stakes involved and focus on minimizing the long-term impact on your life. We will help you challenge the basis of the order, gather evidence, and prepare for any hearings.
Harassment Prevention Orders (258E)
Harassment prevention orders fall under M.G.L. c. 258E and are available to individuals who are not in a domestic relationship with the accused. These orders are based on a showing of at least three acts of willful and malicious conduct aimed at a specific person, causing fear, intimidation, or abuse. These cases often hinge on ambiguous interactions, making it essential to have a Massachusetts defense attorney who knows how to dissect the facts and present your side. Our criminal defense law firm will work to dismantle exaggerated or unfounded allegations and guide you through every step of the process.
Cities and Towns We Serve
Our criminal defense law firm proudly represents individuals throughout Suffolk and Essex Counties. Whether you’re dealing with a restraining order or related criminal charge, we’re ready to help. From Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, and Chelsea in Suffolk County to Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus in Essex County, our legal team provides aggressive, personalized representation. With offices located in both Boston and Salem, we’re conveniently positioned to serve clients across a wide area of eastern Massachusetts.
Charges We Handle
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we don’t just defend against restraining orders—we’re prepared to handle the criminal charges that often follow. These charges can result from misunderstandings, emotional disputes, or even false claims, and can carry significant penalties. Each case demands a focused, strategic defense to ensure your rights are protected. Below are some of the criminal charges we routinely handle throughout Massachusetts, particularly in Suffolk and Essex Counties.
Assault and Battery
Under M.G.L. c. 265, § 13A, assault and battery is the unlawful touching of another person, whether intended to cause harm or committed recklessly. These charges often arise in connection with 209A restraining orders and can quickly escalate into felony matters. Our attorneys aggressively cross-examine witnesses, challenge police reports, and find inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence. We help ensure that one allegation doesn’t define your future. If you’re facing a criminal charge tied to a restraining order, we’ll defend your case with strategy and precision.
Witness Intimidation
Witness intimidation is governed by M.G.L. c. 268, § 13B, which makes it a crime to threaten, harass, or attempt to influence any party involved in a legal proceeding. These charges often come up when a restraining order is in place and communication is misinterpreted. Our criminal defense law firm will analyze text messages, phone logs, and third-party statements to build your defense. We treat these cases with urgency, as a conviction could carry years of imprisonment. Don’t let a misunderstanding become a criminal record—let our team work to clear your name.
Violation of a Restraining Order
According to M.G.L. c. 209A, § 7, violating a restraining order is a criminal offense in Massachusetts, even if the underlying order was civil. A violation can occur from something as simple as an unintentional phone call or being seen in the same location as the complainant. Our Massachusetts defense attorneys are skilled in showing the court whether the alleged violation was unintentional, fabricated, or misunderstood. We defend against these charges by reviewing the conditions of the order, law enforcement procedures, and your communication history. A proactive defense can make the difference in how your case is resolved.
Stalking
Stalking is defined under M.G.L. c. 265, § 43 and requires a pattern of conduct intended to cause fear or emotional distress. It is often charged alongside harassment prevention orders and carries serious penalties, including imprisonment. Our criminal defense attorneys know how to differentiate between unwanted contact and criminal behavior, and we are prepared to challenge both the facts and the legal basis of the charge. If you’ve been accused of stalking in Massachusetts, we will fight for your rights and challenge exaggerated accusations.
Threats to Commit a Crime
Under M.G.L. c. 275, § 2, it is illegal to make a threat to commit a crime against another person, even if no action was taken. These charges are often rooted in text messages or verbal exchanges taken out of context. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys will carefully examine the context and intent behind the communication. The burden is on the prosecution to prove that you had both the intention and the ability to carry out the threat. We’ll make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
Every restraining order case is different, and your defense deserves personalized attention. At our criminal defense law firm, we take the time to understand your case and craft a defense that reflects your circumstances. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are positioned to serve clients across Suffolk and Essex Counties. Contact us today to set up a strategy session and get the legal guidance you need to protect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Massachusetts, what happens if I break a restraining order?
Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense and can result in arrest, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. It’s critical to have a defense attorney who can explain your rights and fight the charges.
Can a restraining order be removed before it expires?
Yes. You can file a motion to modify or terminate a restraining order. A criminal defense attorney can help you present evidence to support your request.
Is a restraining order considered a criminal charge?
Restraining orders are a civil matter, not a criminal one. However, violating it can lead to criminal charges, which is why it’s vital to take it seriously.
How long do abuse prevention orders last in Massachusetts?
Under Chapter 209A, an order may last for up to one year but can be extended or made permanent after a review hearing.
What if I didn’t know a restraining order was in place?
Ignorance of a restraining order is not typically a valid defense. However, your defense attorney may be able to show that you weren’t properly served or notified, which could impact the outcome.