Question: What is a 209A order?

Answer: An abuse prevention order, called a "209A Order", or a "protective order," or a "restraining order" is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family member or a household member. You can obtain an order against:

• a spouse or former spouse, 
• a present or former household member, 
• a relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage, 
• the parent of your minor child, or 
• a person with whom you have or have had a substantial dating relationship.