Massachusetts G.L. c. 258E
258E hearing preparation — built for Massachusetts courts.
A private 258E lawyer can run $3,000–$10,000+. We give you an attorney-reviewed preparation packet — built for your court and your facts — starting at $149, so you walk in knowing the standard, your strongest points, and exactly what to say.
- Chronological incident timeline — organized, clear, and case-specific
- A prep memo made specifically for your case — everything reviewed by a real attorney
- Evidence and witness checklist mapped to your case
- Attorney's flagged issues and recommended approach
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Allie
AI Intake Director · 258E
Allie is an AI assistant — responses are for preparation purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
How it works
Tell Allie your situation
Start the conversation above. Allie identifies which path applies to you — defendant, plaintiff, or pre-filing — and begins the intake interview.
Thorough AI-assisted intake
Allie conducts a structured, detailed interview covering every incident, witness, and piece of evidence. One focused question at a time — nothing missed.
Attorney-reviewed packet
A licensed Massachusetts attorney reviews your intake, flags legal risks, and delivers your preparation packet before your hearing date.
Who reviews your case
Reviewing attorney
Patrick T. Donovan, Esq.
Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney · Former Assistant District Attorney
A former Norfolk County Assistant District Attorney, Attorney Donovan now defends clients in Massachusetts district and superior courts. He reviews every 258E preparation packet with a prosecutor's eye — knowing exactly what the judge and opposing counsel will focus on before you walk into the courtroom.
View Attorney Donovan's full profile →Common questions
What you need to know about 258E
- What is a Massachusetts 258E harassment prevention order?
- A 258E order is a civil court order issued under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 258E. It can require a person to stop harassing someone, stop all contact, and stay away from their home or workplace. It is not a criminal charge, but violating it carries criminal penalties.
- What happens at a 258E 10-day hearing?
- The 10-day hearing is the first full hearing where both sides can appear. The judge hears from the plaintiff and defendant before deciding whether to extend the temporary order. Preparation matters — the judge will want specific dates, incidents, and evidence, not vague descriptions.
- Do I need a lawyer for a 258E hearing in Massachusetts?
- You are not required to have a lawyer, but the consequences of a 258E — including effects on firearms rights, housing, employment, and custody — make preparation critical. Harassment Order .com provides attorney-reviewed preparation packets as a lower-cost alternative to full representation.
- How long does a 258E order last in Massachusetts?
- A temporary 258E order typically lasts until the 10-day hearing. After that, the court may extend it for up to one year. Orders can be extended further at each anniversary hearing.
- Can a 258E order be dismissed or vacated?
- Yes. A defendant can contest the order at the 10-day hearing or file a motion to modify or vacate. The standard is whether the plaintiff can demonstrate harassment as defined under Chapter 258E — three or more willful, malicious acts, or certain single qualifying acts.
- What happens if I violate a 258E order?
- Violating a 258E order is a criminal offense under Massachusetts law. It can result in arrest, criminal charges, and a record. The civil order and the criminal violation are separate matters.
- I was served with a 258E but I live outside Massachusetts. Can I still use this service?
- Yes. The service is open to anyone whose matter is in a Massachusetts court, regardless of where you live. A 258E is a Massachusetts court order — your physical location does not affect your eligibility.
- How is a 258E different from a 209A restraining order in Massachusetts?
- A 209A order applies to family members, household members, and people in a dating relationship. A 258E covers harassment by anyone — neighbors, coworkers, acquaintances — where there is no qualifying relationship under 209A. This site covers 258E only.
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Harassment Order .com · Massachusetts G.L. c. 258E