Domestic violence is an epidemic in the Boston, Massachusetts area and elsewhere. A study has found that the majority of victims of domestic violence experience brain injuries. What has the study found? Victims of domestic violence are no strangers to serious...
Identifying domestic abuse in Massachusetts
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people each year, and it can take many different forms. It is important to understand the different types of domestic abuse so that you can get help if you or someone you know is experiencing it. Emotional...
What should you do when your 209A restraining order ends?
Massachusetts residents who experience domestic violence can get a 209A restraining order to keep their abusers away. It's important to know what happens when the order ends. What is a 209A restraining order? A 209A restraining order is issued by the court to keep an...
Stalking and the possibility of parole in Massachusetts
If you have been charged for stalking in Massachusetts, you could face harsh penalties that can greatly affect your reputation, relationships, career, and life in general. There are times a person could say you were stalking them even if you meant no harm or just...
Is cyberstalking a crime in Massachusetts?
Unwanted attention like hanging outside another person's apartment complex or place of employment, or repeated harassing phone calls are typical acts associated with stalking. Cyberstalking reflects the use of technology to harass and frighten a victim. Threatening...
What is domestic violence leave in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, domestic violence victims and their families have certain protections under state law, including as it relates to their employment. A state law passed in 2014, M.G.L. c. 12, §§ 3, 6, and 9, allows anyone who has experienced domestic violence or has...
How do abuse prevention orders work in Massachusetts?
Domestic violence affects an alarming number of people in Massachusetts and throughout the country. Spousal abuse, along with child and elder abuse, are likely the most well-known examples. However, domestic abuse and violence may occur between different family...
Massachusetts domestic violence laws: Who is protected?
In the state of Massachusetts, it is against the law to commit domestic violence against a family or household member. Not only does the law specifically state who is considered a family or household member, but it is clear regarding what constitutes domestic violence...
How domestic violence claims can influence a custody case
In Massachusetts, judges evaluate a variety of factors to decide whether it is in the child's best interests to have one parent as the primary caregiver. State law requires judges to investigate allegations of domestic violence prior to making a ruling in a child...
Deeper than the physical scars
When you hear about someone being involved in domestic violence, you may think about hitting, punching or other types of physical abuse. However, there are many other ways that domestic violence can be committed in Massachusetts and other locations. This type of...
