Bill > H1818

This bill amends two Massachusetts legal chapters (209A and 258E) to clarify that protective orders issued for minor children will automatically remain in effect after the child reaches the age of majority (18 years old), unless a court decides otherwise. Under the proposed legislation, when a minor turns 18, they may appear in court at the original order's expiration date, at which point the court will evaluate whether to extend the protective order for additional time if necessary to ensure the plaintiff's safety or to establish a permanent order. This provision ensures continued legal protection for individuals who were minors when the original protective order was issued, recognizing that safety needs may persist beyond a person's 18th birthday. The bill applies to both "on behalf of" orders and protective orders related to minor children, providing a consistent legal approach to maintaining protective measures for young individuals transitioning to adulthood.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1818