PFA Orders: Essential Dos and Don’ts

Domestic violence is a severe offense in Pennsylvania. To protect survivors, the state allows them to file a Protection from Abuse (PFA) petition against the accused individual. This critical legal measure shields victims from potential mental and physical harm. Surprisingly, over the past five years, PFA cases in the New Castle region have experienced a 5% surge, which emphasizes the serious nature of the domestic violence threat today.

If you are currently facing a PFA order or have already been formally charged, it is essential to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable New Castle criminal lawyer. These legal professionals have the exact expertise needed to help you navigate the proper course of action. Because the state laws that govern PFA orders are not always explicitly clear, defendants must stay highly vigilant. Even a seemingly minor misstep can lead to you being held in contempt of the PFA, which ultimately results in steep penalties and fines.

Are you curious about exactly what you should do and what you must avoid during a PFA proceeding? Continue reading to discover authentic, reliable information directly from Logue Law Group.

Actions to Avoid After Receiving a PFA Charge

Getting a notification that you have been hit with a PFA charge can be incredibly distressing and confusing. At first, it might be tough to figure out the correct path to stay off the state police’s radar. Accusations of domestic violence carry a heavy weight and frequently result in harsh social judgment. If the court finds you in contempt of the protection order, your situation will become significantly more complicated.

To protect yourself from unexpected contempt charges, you need to understand the exact specifics of your PFA. Generally, there are three main types of PFA orders: emergency, ex parte, and final. In the vast majority of cases, a defendant is charged with an emergency or ex parte PFA because final PFA orders are usually reserved for the most extreme situations.

Under absolutely no circumstances should you try to contact the plaintiff. Even sending a quick text message that just says “hello” can put you in serious jeopardy. They can easily use your texts or any other communication method against you. It is vital to follow the advice of your New Castle DUI attorney or defense counsel. Their insights will be incredibly invaluable as you handle complex PFA restrictions. Remember, if you violate the order, you could face a minimum punishment of six months in jail as well as a $1000 fine, as law enforcement will take rigorous and immediate action.

Steps to Take When a PFA is Filed Against You

If you find yourself completely unsure of what to do after being served with a PFA order, do not panic. Securing a skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can give you the much-needed clarity you require during this stressful period. It is deeply important to carefully read the specific conditions mentioned in the official order, because every single case has unique requirements.

For instance, your order may include the following restrictions:

• Specific limits on your legal right to firearm possession.
• A strict ban on contact with the plaintiff’s close family and friends.
• Prohibitions or heavy limitations regarding your interactions with minor children.

You must always obey the order entirely until a judge officially makes any changes in court. When it comes to successfully navigating these difficult PFA cases, there is no one more experienced than New Castle DUI attorney Sean Logue. Reach out and call him at 412.387.6901 today to schedule a free consultation regarding any aspect of your specific PFA case.