Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Resources

During the COVID-19 public health crisis, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault can still access critical services.

Where to Go for Help

Services and support are available for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault during the COVID-19 public health emergency, and when you are ready to access them.

  • Call SafeLink, a 24/7 statewide domestic violence and sexual assault referral hotline, at 1-877-785-2020.
  • The Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance offers free resources for victims, survivors and providers at 844-878-MOVA or mass.gov/askMOVA.
  • If you have experienced domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available 24/7. Text LOVEIS to 22522, call 1-800-799-7233, or visit thehotline.org/help.
  • If you have experienced sexual violence, you can get access to confidential services, including a sexual assault kit, at no cost. Visit this site for more information and to find local resources in your area: janedoe.org/find_help.
  • If you or someone you know has been the victim of a violent crime, you get an application for the Victim Compensation program here. For help with the application, please call 617-963-2160.

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How to Request an Abuse Protection Order or Harassment Protection Order

Abuse prevention orders (sometimes referred to as “209A protection orders”) and harassment prevention orders (otherwise known as “258E orders”) are also still available during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Trial Court has created online fillable forms for each order of protection. The application for an abuse prevention order is available here, and the harassment prevention order form is here

Before you fill out the form, contact your local court during normal business hours to get instructions on how to proceed with an order request. If you need assistance after normal court hours, please contact your local police department.

For more information about orders of protection, eligibility and next steps, you can find it here.

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Additional Resources

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