A Massachusetts 209A Motion for Impoundment and Affidavit is a civil court order issued under Massachusetts General Laws chapter 209A. This motion is used to protect victims of domestic violence by legally restraining an abuser from engaging in further acts of abuse, harassment, or contact with the victim. The motion can be filed by a victim or an attorney representing them. The motion includes an affidavit from the victim that outlines the details of the abuse, harassment, or contact, as well as a restraining order. The restraining order is legally binding and may include terms such as no contact, no communication, and no physical or verbal harassment. There are two types of Massachusetts 209A Motion for Impoundment and Affidavit: * An Emergency 209A Motion, which is a temporary restraining order, and * A Final 209A Motion, which is a permanent restraining order. Both types of 209A Motion require the abuser to stay away from the victim and to cease any contact or communication with the victim. The Motion can also include other orders, such as a requirement for the abuser to pay for medical expenses or to surrender firearms.