Hey everyone, I was wondering… is it possible to request an affidavit for a harassment prevention order under Chapter 258E without an attorney? I’m trying to figure out the process and if it’s something I can handle on my own. Any advice or experiences to share?
Yeah, you can totally do this without a lawyer. The process is designed for people who are representing themselves. Just go to your local district or superior court and grab the forms. The court clerks are usually super helpful with basic guidance.
@Marlow
Thanks! Does it have to be done in person, though? Like, can I file it online instead?
@Marlow
Most courts now have e-filing systems, so yeah, you should be able to do it online. It’s actually preferred in a lot of places.
@Marlow
That’s good to know! I’ll check if my local court offers e-filing. Thanks for the heads-up .
Just make sure to include all the details about the harassment in your affidavit. It’s the key part of the process.
Dexter said:
Just make sure to include all the details about the harassment in your affidavit. It’s the key part of the process.
Noted! Do you know if the court staff helps with filling out the form, or is it all on me?
Dexter said:
Just make sure to include all the details about the harassment in your affidavit. It’s the key part of the process.
They won’t fill it out for you, but they can explain what info goes where. Super useful if you get stuck.
Dexter said:
Just make sure to include all the details about the harassment in your affidavit. It’s the key part of the process.
Got it, thanks! I’ll make sure to ask for help if I need it.
When I did mine, I just went to the court and asked for the forms. It was pretty straightforward. The clerks were nice, but they can’t give legal advice, FYI.
Lennox said:
When I did mine, I just went to the court and asked for the forms. It was pretty straightforward. The clerks were nice, but they can’t give legal advice, FYI.
Good to know, thanks! So they’ll explain the process but not what to write specifically?
Lennox said:
When I did mine, I just went to the court and asked for the forms. It was pretty straightforward. The clerks were nice, but they can’t give legal advice, FYI.
Exactly. They’ll help you with the logistics, but what you write is up to you.
Lennox said:
When I did mine, I just went to the court and asked for the forms. It was pretty straightforward. The clerks were nice, but they can’t give legal advice, FYI.
Got it! Thanks for clarifying.
Wait, what’s 258E? Sorry, not familiar with this.
Sidney said:
Wait, what’s 258E? Sorry, not familiar with this.
Oh, it’s a harassment prevention order in Massachusetts. Chapter 258E covers situations where someone’s been harassed.
Sidney said:
Wait, what’s 258E? Sorry, not familiar with this.
Ah, thanks! Makes sense now. Good luck with your filing .
Sidney said:
Wait, what’s 258E? Sorry, not familiar with this.
Thanks! Appreciate it .
Don’t forget to double-check the forms before filing. Missing details can slow down the process.
Lyle said:
Don’t forget to double-check the forms before filing. Missing details can slow down the process.
Good tip, thanks! I’ll make sure it’s all complete before I submit it.
Lyle said:
Don’t forget to double-check the forms before filing. Missing details can slow down the process.
No problem. Better to take your time now than have to redo it later.