Guideline 2:02
A person requesting relief under c. 209A should be directed by the person designated to receive such requests to an area, preferably separate, where the matter can be discussed and the Complaint for Protection from Abuse completed with as much privacy as possible. At a minimum, the matter should be discussed out of the hearing of all persons, court personnel and general public alike, who are not directly involved.
Commentary
Despite the volume of activity in the typical clerk’s office, efforts must be made to ensure privacy for the plaintiff seeking relief under c. 209A. Where a separate room or area is not available, the discussion should be conducted so as to protect the plaintiff’s privacy (e.g., perhaps at one end of the counter).
In the process of seeking relief under c. 209A, a party may disclose information that is not known to family, friends, and associates. While no special procedures are required or recommended, it is important that court staff be aware that such disclosure might present concerns for a party and attempt to accommodate the privacy concerns of the individuals involved as much as possible.
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| Last updated: | October 20, 2025 |
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