M.G. v. G.A.

This appeal arises from the dismissal of a complaint that sought a G. L. c. 209A abuse prevention order. At the hearing conducted after notice had issued to the defendant, the defendant moved "for a directed verdict"1 at the close of the plaintiff's case on the ground that the evidence presented by the plaintiff was not sufficient to support the issuance of an order. After hearing argument from counsel, the judge allowed the defendant's motion and dismissed the complaint.

We conclude that the judge's order dismissing the complaint must be vacated and the case must be remanded because the judge…