Temporary and Final PFA Orders in Pennsylvania

PFA orders are typically imposed on two parties with a “domestic relationship.” Pennsylvania strives to safeguard its citizens from potential acts like harassment, stalking, or threats by imposing various restrictions on the alleged abuser’s civil rights. This is akin to restriction orders in other jurisdictions, with the exception that PFA cases focus exclusively on acts of domestic violence. If you or someone close to you has been charged with a PFA order, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from an accomplished Pittsburgh PFA lawyer. They can provide you with an intricate understanding of this complex court order and offer guidance on permissible actions.

The most common types of PFA orders issued by civil courts are Temporary and Final PFA orders. At Sciosa Law, we have compiled crucial information regarding both of these orders to ensure you remain clear-headed throughout this challenging process.

Temporary PFA Orders

When served with a temporary PFA, here’s what it entails:

A temporary PFA is effective for approximately 10 days. During this period, you must maintain zero contact with your partner, ex-partner, and children (if applicable). A court hearing will take place to determine whether the case necessitates a Final PFA. It is imperative that you seek the guidance of a trusted Pittsburgh criminal lawyer to navigate this process. The court hearing can be overwhelming and exhausting, and securing professional assistance significantly reduces the likelihood of severe penalties or punishments.

Final PFA Orders

A Final PFA order can be a severe restriction imposed on individuals. This order entails:

• Prohibition from contacting, visiting, or communicating with the plaintiff through social media channels
• Granting immediate custody of minor children to the plaintiff, regardless of their parenting capabilities
• Mandatory surrender of firearms to ensure the plaintiff’s safety
• Requirement to attend counseling sessions, anger management classes, or therapy aimed at reducing violent behavior

The duration of a Final PFA order can extend up to three years or more, contingent upon adhering to its conditions and avoiding any violations.

Defense Against PFA Orders

To effectively challenge temporary and final PFA Orders, attending all crucial court hearings is imperative. It is highly recommended to secure the support of a skilled Pittsburgh DUI lawyer who can vigorously advocate for your case.

For temporary PFA cases, a court hearing will be scheduled within the next ten days. Failure to attend this hearing may result in the issuance of a Final PFA order, which imposes severe restrictions on civil rights and restricts contact with children or spouses. To maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, it is crucial to enlist the services of a reputable attorney.

Sean Logue, one of Pittsburgh’s premier PFA defense lawyers, possesses the expertise to develop strong strategies to assist you. If you or a loved one is facing a PFA order, contact us today at 412-389-0805 for immediate assistance!