Criminal Complaints & Domestic Violence
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Criminal complaints: starting a case in criminal court
Learn more about starting a criminal case against an abuser and whether it is a good option for you.
Who’s who in the criminal process: information for victims of crime
A lot of different people work in the criminal courthouse in Massachusetts. It can be hard to know what each person does. It is fine to ask court staff, "Who are you? What do you do here?"
Clerk Magistrate Hearings
Learn about Clerk Magistrate Hearings, which take place when you or the police file a criminal complaint against someone.
What happens at the arraignment?
Learn what happens at the hearing where the court charges the person who abused you with the crime, and how the judge sets bail.
What happens at the pre-trial conference in a criminal case?
A pre-trial conference is usually the next court date after the arraignment. Learn more.
What happens at a criminal trial?
Learn about criminal trials, the last part of a criminal case, from the point of view of the victim of the crime.
Domestic violence and how to get help
Learn what domestic violence is under Massachusetts law and how to get help.
What is a certified Intimate Partner Abuse Education Program?
Learn more about IPAEPs and whether they might be a good option for you or your partner.
Working with the police
It is up to you if you want help from the police when someone is abusing you. Learn what happens when the police get involved and what goes in a police report.