Domestic violence crosses all social, economic, racial, cultural and religious boundaries. If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact Merrimac Police Department at For emergencies (978) 346-8321 dial 911.
Local Domestic Violence Organizations
Women’s Resource Center
69 Summer St. – Haverhill, MA 01830
(978) 373-4041 or toll-free 800-400-4700
The Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center
2 Harris St. – Newburyport, MA 01950
(978) 388-1888
American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence
“You have the right to go to the superior, probate and family, district or Boston municipal court if you reside within the appropriate jurisdiction, and file a complaint requesting any of the following applicable orders:
- an order restraining your attacker from abusing you;
- an order directing your attacker to leave your household;
- an order awarding you custody of a minor child;
- an order directing your attacker to pay support for you or any minor child in your custody, if the attacker has a legal obligation to support them; and
- an order directing your attacker to pay you for the losses suffered as a result of the abuse, including medical and moving expenses, loss of earnings or support, attorneys fees, and other out-of-pocket losses for injuries sustained.
For an emergency on weekends, holidays, or weeknights, you should contact the police, who will refer you to a justice of the superior, probate and family, district, or Boston municipal court departments.
You have the right to go to the appropriate district court or the Boston municipal court and seek a criminal complaint for threats, assault and battery, assault with a deadly weapon, assault with intent to kill, or other related offenses.
If you are in need of medical treatment, you have the right to request that the officer present drive you to the nearest hospital or otherwise assist you in obtaining medical treatment.
If you believe that police protection is needed for your physical safety, you have the right to request that the officer present remain at the scene until you and your children can leave or until your safety is otherwise insured.”
An Abuse Prevention Order, called a “209A Order”(also known as a “protective order” or “restraining order”), is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member. You can obtain an order against:
- A spouse or former spouse.
- A present or former household member.
- A relative by blood or a present or former relative by marriage.
- A roomate, regardless of gender or relationship
- A person with whom you have or had a substantial dating relationship.
- A Dorm. roomate, regardless of gender or relationship
- You may obtain an order for a minor child under the age of 18 if you are his/her parent or legal guardian