Coercive Control Statute Map / MA
Massachusetts
Uses phrase in abuse-prevention (2024) · Secondary: verify cite in the report · Last reviewed August 31, 2026
What “pattern” means here
H.4744 (signed 2024) defines coercive control as a pattern of behavior intended to threaten, intimidate, harass, isolate, control, coerce, or compel compliance of a family or household member, causing fear of physical harm or a reduced sense of safety or autonomy. Pattern is the unit. 209A is civil.
Statutes
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 209A, as amended 2024 (H.4744)
Coercive control added to the abuse-prevention definition.
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 209A, as amended 2024 (H.4744) lists these behaviors. The labels are tactics, not statutes.
Expert standard
Confirm the forum's reliability standard (Daubert, Frye, Sargon, or the local equivalent).
What Carlton Research can speak to
Carlton Research can speak to pattern analysis (coercive control breadth, depth, escalation, entrapment, and more). Research is built to the evidentiary rules of the jurisdiction that will hear it. Carlton Research does not recommend parenting time or custody. Research establishes whether a pattern of coercive control is present. Inquire about specific testimony requests or speaking engagements.
Seventh U.S. state to classify CC as a form of domestic violence in this wave. Confirm current numbering in the General Laws before citing in a report.
Carlton, C. (2026). Coercive Control Statute Map: Massachusetts. Coercive Control Observatory. Last reviewed August 31, 2026.