PFA Orders – The Dos and Don’ts

Domestic violence is a very serious offense in Pennsylvania. To protect survivors, the state allows them to file a Protection from Abuse (PFA) petition against the accused. This crucial legal step is designed to shield victims from potential physical and mental harm. Over the past five years, PFA cases in Pittsburgh have actually witnessed a 5% surge, which clearly highlights the growing severity of domestic violence threats throughout Allegheny County and the surrounding region.

If you find yourself facing a PFA order or have already been formally charged, you must act quickly. It is absolutely crucial to seek the counsel of a skilled Pittsburgh criminal lawyer to protect your rights and your future. They possess the necessary expertise to guide you through the proper legal course of action. Because Pennsylvania state laws governing PFA orders are not always explicitly specified, defendants must remain highly vigilant at all times. Even a minor misstep can result in being held in contempt of the PFA, leading to severe penalties and fines. Curious about exactly what to do and what to avoid during a PFA proceeding? Keep reading for authentic information from Logue Law Group.

What Should You Not Do After a PFA Gets Charged?

Receiving official notification that you have been hit with a PFA can be highly confusing and distressing. Initially, determining the right course of action to stay off the state police’s radar may be incredibly challenging. Domestic violence accusations carry massive weight and often lead to harsh social judgment. If you are found in contempt of the court’s order, matters will only become vastly more complicated.

To safeguard yourself against potential contempt charges, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific details of the PFA document. An experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney can help explain these details thoroughly. There are three specific types of PFA orders you might encounter:

• Emergency PFAs
• Ex-parte PFAs
• Final PFAs

In most situations, you may be charged with an emergency or ex-parte PFA, since final PFA orders are typically reserved for extreme situations. Under no circumstances should you attempt to contact the plaintiff party. Even a simple text message saying “hello” can land you in serious trouble, as they can use your messages or any form of communication against you. Violating the order can result in a minimum punishment of six months in jail and a $1000 fine, as authorities will take rigorous action.

What to Do After a PFA Has Got Charged Against You?

If you find yourself feeling totally confused about what to do after receiving a PFA order, do not worry. Hiring a skilled Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can immediately provide you with the much-needed clarity during this overwhelming time. It is important to carefully review the exact specifications mentioned in the order, as each unique case may have specific requirements. For instance, certain PFAs may explicitly mandate the following:

• Restrict firearm possession
• Prohibit contact with the plaintiff’s family and friends
• Ban interactions with minor children

Always strictly abide by the order until the judge makes any changes. When it comes to successfully navigating complex PFA cases, there is no one more experienced in Pittsburgh than Pittsburgh DUI attorney Sean Logue. Give him a call at 412.387.6901 for a free consultation on any aspect of your legal case.