Domestic Violence

What is domestic violence?

Domestic Violence or family violence is the abuse of power or control. It is behavior used by one person to control another through force or threats. A batterer makes a choice to strike, hit, kick, punch or threaten the victim. Domestic violence includes physical and sexual attacks and threats. These violent acts are criminal and the batterer can be prosecuted for committing them. The acts are a means of controlling the victim’s thoughts, feelings and behavior. The violence does not lessen over time. The threats and / or beatings generally happen more often with time, last longer and cause greater physical injuries. 

 

Emotional abuse and insulting words are almost always part of the abuse pattern, but are not considered criminal acts. The wounds from these injuries, however, may be more difficult to heal. Domestic violence is not caused by or provoked by the actions or inaction’s of the victim. Domestic violence is not directly caused by alcohol or drug abuse, depression, lack of money, lack of a job, mental illness or abuse as a child. However, existing problems often create additional stress in a relationship and may increase the risk of violence. Many abusers blame the victim or other things for their violent acts and do not take responsibility for the abusive behavior. There is never an excuse for violence. 

domestic violence resources

SafeLink (Statewide Domestic Violence)877-785-2020
National Domestic Violence Hotline800-799-7233
National Sexual Assault Hotline800-656-4673
Child at Risk Hotline800-792-5200

Abuse Prevention Orders (G.L.c. 209A)

What Courthouse should I contact for an abuse prevention order?

The Town of Mendon falls under the jurisdiction of the:

 

Milford District Court

261 West Street

Milford, Massachusetts

Phone: (508) 473-1260

Do I need an Appointment to file for a restraining order?

You do not need an appointment or a referral to file for a restraining order. You may contact Milford District Court anytime during business hours between 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM to apply for an order. If you are looking for assistance after hours, please reach out to the Mendon Police Department who can access an on-call judge through the Judicial Response System.

What do information do I need to provide for a restraining order?

      • Contact information for both you and the defendant
    •  
      • The nature of the relationship between you and the defendant
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      • The nature of the abuse or harassment that occurred
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      • Whether or not either you or the defendant are under the age of 18
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      • Whether or not the defendant possesses any guns, ammunition, firearms identification cards, and/or a license to carry
    •  
      • Whether or not there are any prior or pending court actions in Massachusetts or any other state or country
    •  
      • Whether or not you have any minor children
        What relief you are requesting from the court, meaning what you are asking the judge to order

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