A Defendant’s Survival Guide to PFA Cases

Being served with a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order in Pennsylvania can take a massive emotional toll. It brings serious collateral consequences that can heavily disrupt your daily life. To safely get through this difficult period, you must secure the assistance of an experienced legal professional who will fight for your rights in court and work to minimize any potential penalties.

Here at Logue Law Group, our dedicated legal team has gathered the most important details you need to know if you are facing a PFA. Attorney Sean Logue is here to act as your reliable advocate, helping you successfully handle these grave domestic abuse allegations. If you want to understand how to properly deal with a PFA hearing, continue reading this guide.

Understanding the Basics of a PFA Order

Who is eligible to file a PFA?

In Pennsylvania, individuals involved in a domestic relationship can initiate a PFA against one another if violence occurs. Generally, this legal action protects spouses and live-in partners. When the plaintiff (the alleged victim) requests protection from the defendant (the accused), a judge may issue a temporary or ex parte order. If you find yourself in this situation, consulting a skilled New Castle criminal lawyer is a vital step to protect your future.

Are PFA orders civil or criminal matters?

A PFA itself is handled within the civil court system. This means that attending the initial hearing does not mean you face criminal charges right away. However, acts of domestic violence are strict criminal offenses under Pennsylvania law. While the primary case is civil, violating the protection order’s terms will trigger criminal consequences. This is why having a knowledgeable New Castle DUI attorney or defense lawyer in your corner is so critical to avoid crossing legal boundaries.

What specific restrictions accompany a PFA?

Depending on the severity of the allegations, a PFA can impose various limitations on your freedom. Common restrictions include:

• A strict ban on committing any further acts of domestic abuse.
• Immediate eviction from your shared residence to provide the plaintiff with space.
• A total prohibition on harassing, threatening, or stalking the plaintiff, including via social media.
• The potential loss of child custody, granting 100% custody of minor children to the plaintiff, if applicable.
• Mandatory payment of child support or alimony welfare.

What to Do After Receiving a PFA

Avoid all conflict with the plaintiff

Any seasoned New Castle criminal lawyer will tell you to avoid contacting the plaintiff. If you try to argue about the order or reach out to them, the court will undoubtedly rule against you. The state enforces these protection orders strictly, and challenging its rules will only harm your case.

Review the paperwork thoroughly

The PFA document contains all the mandatory rules you must follow. Take the time to meticulously read every term and condition so you understand your legal boundaries and obligations.

Take the order seriously

Receiving these accusations is stressful, but ignoring the paperwork is a huge mistake. The order becomes active the moment you are served. You must treat it with utmost importance and immediately contact Logue Law Group. New Castle DUI attorney Sean Logue and his legal team are ready to provide the defense strategy you need in Lawrence County and beyond. Call us today at 412.387.6901 for immediate assistance.