PFA Violations in Pennsylvania

When dealing with domestic abuse in Pennsylvania, it is essential to understand that the state does not have distinct, standalone laws for this specific crime. Instead, these situations are typically prosecuted under other criminal charges. For this reason, if you are served with a PFA (Protection From Abuse) notice, you must treat it with the utmost seriousness. You might feel confused about what this means for your future. Because PFA orders are highly complex, defendants frequently violate them without even realizing it. At Logue Law Group, our goal is to give you clear, accurate details about PFA orders and the harsh realities of failing to comply.

What is a PFA Order?

A PFA Order is an official court mandate created to protect people from domestic abuse, including both physical harm and psychological trauma. It is vital to understand that a domestic relationship is not limited to married couples; people living together as partners can also ask the court for a PFA Order.

There are primarily two categories of these mandates: Emergency and Ex-parte. Emergency PFAs are granted in urgent scenarios where the plaintiff reports immediate abuse. These are only active until midnight, leaving the court to decide the next steps. Ex-parte PFAs last for a much longer period. Throughout this legal process, any contempt of court can lead to disastrous outcomes. This is why you need a knowledgeable Mercer criminal lawyer to help you understand the legal system.

What Does a PFA Order Contain?

Usually, the mandate lists specific rules the accused individual must follow to escape punishment. These legal rules can be incredibly confusing for the average person to navigate alone. When facing these confusing terms, a dedicated Mercer DUI attorney can offer essential advice and clarity.

Standard limitations in a PFA Order often include:

• Zero contact with the plaintiff or any shared minor children
• Surrendering custody and parental rights of minor children to the plaintiff
• Being banned from entering or living in a shared residence
• Mandatory financial support for the plaintiff and minor children, among other rules

What Happens When a PFA Order Gets Violated?

If a PFA order is broken, it immediately becomes a criminal offense in Pennsylvania. The fallout from ignoring a PFA order is strict, and state police will enforce harsh penalties against the offender. Often, an arrest is a very real possibility. Generally, individuals convicted of PFA violations are sentenced to six months in jail, face a $1000 fine, and get an ‘indirect criminal offense’ charge on their permanent record.

To properly manage the heavy burden of these orders, it is highly recommended to seek counsel from a trusted lawyer. Attorney Sean Logue possesses extensive experience fighting these cases in Mercer County and is fully prepared to defend your rights. With his representation, you can feel confident that your penalties in PFA cases will be minimized. If you are facing compounding charges, consulting a Mercer DUI attorney at our group can also protect your future. Call 412.387.6901 today to schedule your free consultation.