The Collateral Damages of a PFA Order You Might Face

If you have been served with a PFA notice, it is absolutely vital to act quickly and seek professional legal assistance immediately. Even though Pennsylvania does not have a separate statute exclusively for domestic abuse, the state prosecutes these offenses under the hate crime statutes. As a result, when a person alleges stalking, harassment, or a violation by their spouse or partner, the court will typically issue a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order to ensure the alleged victim’s legal protection. In situations involving extreme allegations of abuse, a judge may grant an Emergency Protection from Abuse Order to provide temporary relief by separating the accuser from the accused.

According to Pennsylvania law, a domestic relationship must exist between the accused and the victim. Consequently, even unmarried couples cohabitating can be subjected to PFA orders based on their living arrangements. Unfortunately, these legal mandates often trigger severe collateral damage with sweeping effects on your daily life. To minimize these harsh penalties, retaining a dedicated Mercer criminal lawyer is a critical step in defending your rights and navigating the complex legal system. Let us review the potential collateral damages so you can fully understand how ignoring this notice could negatively impact your future.

Immediate Eviction

When a PFA order is granted, you will likely be forced to move out of your shared home right away. Living with your domestic partner becomes strictly forbidden under the law. Moving out so abruptly is undeniably difficult, and the harsh reality of eviction goes far beyond simply being displaced. Securing a new rental property can be an uphill battle, as many landlords in Mercer may view your application unfavorably due to your legal status. During this turbulent time, staying with a supportive family member or friend who empathizes with your situation might be your safest course of action.

Potential Loss of Child Custody

Perhaps the most heartbreaking consequence of a PFA trial is the risk of losing custody of your children. If your children are under 18, they could be removed from your care, with the court awarding 100% custody to the alleged victim. Studies indicate that children suffer immense trauma when they are unexpectedly separated from a parent during these contentious cases. To fight for your parental rights, you should consult an experienced Mercer DUI attorney who can also handle court hearings regarding child custody. If the accuser is an unfit parent, compiling solid evidence can encourage the court to at least grant you supervised visitation rights.

Complications with Employment

Dealing with a PFA order can also severely disrupt your professional life. The complications are often severe, ranging from receiving a sudden termination notice to being placed on mandatory unpaid leave. Furthermore, trying to secure new employment with an active protective order on your record can be incredibly challenging. Fortunately, there is a way to protect your livelihood and reputation. By working alongside a seasoned Mercer criminal lawyer, you can strategize the best approach to mitigate these professional setbacks and keep your career intact.

Hire the Best Legal Defense with Logue Law Group

The Logue Law Group is highly recognized for its extensive proficiency in managing complex PFA cases. With years of dedicated experience, they work tirelessly to ensure that you face the absolute minimum in penalties and collateral fallout. Whether you need a defense advocate for a protective order or a trusted Mercer DUI attorney, our legal team is ready to step in and fight for you. Reach out to the Logue Law Group today at 412.387.6901 to schedule a complimentary consultation and secure top-tier legal representation. Let our experts guide you through this difficult chapter in your life.