Domestic violence and how to get help
"Domestic violence" is when a family member or intimate partner abuses another family member, household member, or intimate partner. There are many different forms of abuse. Massachusetts law usually defines domestic violence or abuse as when someone:
- harms you physically,
- tries to harm you physically,
- makes you afraid that serious physical harm is going to happen to you, or
- threatens, pressures, or forces you to have sex.
Your intimate partner can be someone you date or used to date, be married to, have children with, etc.
Important:
Call 911 if you are in danger right now.
If you are not in immediate danger, you can call SafeLink at 1-877-785-2020.
Jump to more resources below.
Call 911 if you are in danger right now.
If you are not in immediate danger, you can contact:
- SafeLink Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-877-785-2020 (24/7, in many languages)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text "START" to 88788 or chat online
See Jane Doe's list of Massachusetts domestic violence programs and court resources for safety and support.
- Ask the court clerk - many courthouses have advocates who can help you with the paperwork and come to a hearing.
- Court service centers can help with the paperwork.
- Use a guided interview on Court Forms Online.
- Find a lawyer.