Needham Restraining Order Lawyer

Restraining orders can have severe and lasting consequences, affecting your freedom, reputation, employment, and personal relationships. If you have been served with a restraining order in Needham, immediate legal action is critical to protect your rights. At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide aggressive and strategic defense against unfair or unjustified restraining orders.

What Is a Restraining Order?

A restraining order, also called a 209A Abuse Prevention Order, is a court-issued protective order that restricts contact between individuals. While intended to protect alleged victims of domestic violence, many restraining orders are based on false allegations, misunderstandings, or exaggerated claims. A restraining order does not require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning even weak accusations can lead to serious restrictions on your rights.

Types of Restraining Orders in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law provides two primary types of protective orders:

• 209A Abuse Prevention Orders – Issued when there is an alleged domestic relationship (spouse, partner, family member, roommate, etc.).
• 258E Harassment Prevention Orders – Issued when no domestic relationship exists, such as workplace or social disputes.

Violating any part of a restraining order is a criminal offense, even if the accusation is false. If you are facing a restraining order, seek legal counsel immediately.

How Restraining Orders Are Issued in Needham

1. Emergency & Temporary (Ex Parte) Orders
   A judge may issue a temporary restraining order without your presence if the alleged victim claims an immediate risk of harm.
   You will be served the order by the Needham Police Department and required to comply immediately.
   These orders typically last up to 10 days until a full hearing.
2. Full Court Hearing & Final Orders
   Within 10 days, you will have the opportunity to challenge the restraining order at a hearing.
   A judge will review evidence and testimony before deciding whether to extend the order for up to one year or dismiss it.
   Failure to appear in court may result in an automatic extension of the order.
3. Permanent Restraining Orders
   After one year, the petitioner can request an extension, and in some cases, the order may become permanent.
   If granted, it may restrict your rights indefinitely.

What Are the Consequences of a Restraining Order?

Being subject to a restraining order can negatively impact nearly every aspect of your life, including:

• Criminal Record Impact: While restraining orders are civil matters, violating one is a criminal offense, leading to potential jail time.
• Employment Issues: Many employers conduct background checks, and a restraining order may affect job opportunities.
• Firearm Surrender: You may be required to surrender firearms and lose your gun license (LTC/FID).
• Housing Restrictions: Landlords may refuse to rent to individuals with a restraining order on record.
• Family Law & Child Custody Issues: A restraining order can severely impact child custody and visitation rights.

Fighting a restraining order is essential to protect your rights and future. Contact our Needham restraining order defense lawyers at (857) 229-2442 today.

Defenses Against Restraining Orders in Needham

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we aggressively defend clients against unfair restraining orders. Common legal defenses include:

• False or Exaggerated Allegations: Many orders are based on false claims, often made in divorce or custody disputes.
• Insufficient Evidence: The petitioner must provide convincing evidence that they are in danger.
• Due Process Violations: If you were not properly notified or denied an opportunity to present evidence, the order may be overturned.
• Mutual Conflict or Self-Defense: If there is evidence of mutual aggression or self-defense, the order may not be justified.

Do not face a restraining order alone. Our skilled Needham attorneys will build a strong case to protect your rights.

Where Are Restraining Order Hearings Held in Needham?

If you have been served a restraining order in Needham, your case will likely be heard at:

Dedham District Court
📍 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777

Needham restraining orders are often enforced by:

Needham Police Department
📍 99 School St, Needham, MA 02492
📞 (781) 455-7570

Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we have extensive experience defending against restraining orders in Needham, Dedham District Court, and throughout Massachusetts. Our firm is known for:

• Aggressive Legal Representation: We challenge unjust restraining orders and fight for case dismissals.
• Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys: We have successfully handled hundreds of restraining order cases.
• Personalized Strategy: We tailor our legal defense to the specific details of your case.
• Proven Track Record: We have a high success rate in protecting clients from long-term restraining orders.