Criminal Contempt in PFA Orders in Pennsylvania

Accusations of domestic violence can make your personal life incredibly tense and complicated. The overwhelming societal pressure and judgment often lead to significant collateral damage. Interestingly, Pennsylvania does not have a specific set of laws exclusively for domestic abuse; instead, it prosecutes these offenses under other general criminal statutes.

To fight against domestic abuse, Pennsylvania created the Protection from Abuse Act. If you or a loved one is facing the threat of a PFA order or has already been served with one, getting help from a trusted professional is absolutely critical. Although PFA cases generally take place in civil courts, any violation or violent act associated with a PFA order becomes a strict criminal offense. Because the definition of “domestic abuse” can sometimes be vague, finding a skilled Pittsburgh criminal lawyer is essential to figure out your best legal strategy and prevent accidental violations. At Logue Law Group, we have gathered the most important details regarding PFA orders and their potential criminal consequences in Allegheny County and beyond.

Curious to learn more? Keep reading below!

What Does a PFA Order Mean?

PFA orders are either temporary or final mandates issued by civil court judges to shield people claiming to be victims of domestic abuse. If a partner or spouse serves you with one of these orders, you must understand its strict rules.

• Restraining Order: You are legally required to stay away from the alleged victim.
• Communication Restriction: You cannot contact them through any medium, including social media or by asking relatives to reach out on your behalf.
• Harassment and Stalking: Stalking or harassing the plaintiff is entirely forbidden.
• Child Custody: When minor children are part of the situation, the plaintiff usually receives immediate custodial rights.
• Social Media Silence: You must refrain from making any posts, vlogs, or comments about the legal situation on social networks.

Because a PFA severely limits your personal freedoms, it is critical to evaluate your options carefully alongside a knowledgeable Pittsburgh DUI attorney who also handles criminal defense, ensuring you avoid crossing any legal boundaries.

PFA Order Violation and ‘Indirect Criminal Offenses’

If you receive a PFA order, you must act with extreme caution. In Pennsylvania, even the smallest misstep can lead to a ‘criminal contempt’ charge. Domestic abuse is treated as a very serious crime, and the justice system enforces harsh penalties. Such actions are categorized alongside hate crimes and other severe criminal activities, carrying heavy punishments.

Disobeying the protection order results in an ‘indirect criminal offense.’ This charge can lead to a maximum of 6 months in jail and a $1000 fine. If you find yourself facing these severe accusations, you need the guidance of Sean Logue, a top-rated Pittsburgh criminal lawyer. With extensive experience and a proven history of success, he will skillfully navigate your PFA complications. Call Logue Law Group at 412.387.6901 now for a complimentary consultation!