Domestic violence crosses all social, economic, racial, cultural and religious boundaries. If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact LPD communications at 978-937-3200 for emergencies dial 911.

Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 209a defines the following:

Abuse

“Abuse”, the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between family or household members:

  1. attempting to cause or causing physical harm;
  2. placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm;
  3. causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat or duress.
Family Member or Household Member
  1. are or were married to one another;
  2. are or were residing together in the same household;
  3. are or were related by blood or marriage;
  4. having a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together; or
  5. are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship, which shall be adjudged by district, probate or Boston municipal courts consideration of the following factors:
    -the length of time of the relationship; 
    -the type of relationship; 
    -the frequency of interaction between the parties; and 
    -if the relationship has been terminated by either person, the length of time elapsed since the termination of the relationship.

What is a 209a Order?

A person suffering from abuse from an adult or minor family or household member may file a complaint in the court requesting protection from such abuse. For questions regarding abuse protection orders and how to get an order, please call the Lowell Police Communications at 978-937-3200 and in an emergency 911.