Defendant Survival Guide in PFA Cases

Receiving a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order in Pennsylvania can be a highly stressful experience. Such orders carry serious collateral consequences that may significantly disrupt your life. If you find yourself served with a PFA in Mercer, it is essential to seek the counsel of a trustworthy criminal lawyer who can vigorously represent you in court, ensuring penalties and restrictions are minimized.

At Logue Law, our team has created a comprehensive guide with all the essential information to help you deal with a PFA case effectively. Attorney Sean Logue is dedicated to navigating you through these challenging domestic abuse accusations while offering the legal guidance you need.

Are you looking to better understand how to handle a PFA legal process? Keep reading!

The Basics of a PFA Order

Who can file a PFA order?

A PFA order may be filed by individuals who share a domestic relationship. This includes spouses, live-in partners, and family members. Typically, it is sought when the alleged victim (the plaintiff) claims acts of violence and requests legal protection from the accused (the defendant). Courts provide either temporary or ex-parte protection based on the urgency and severity of the accusations.

Is a PFA order civil or criminal?

While a PFA order is classified as a civil matter, it doesn’t necessarily mean the allegations are without criminal implications. Simply put, when you attend your hearing with your Mercer criminal lawyer, you will not face criminal charges under the PFA order itself. However, actions associated with domestic violence are treated as criminal offenses in Pennsylvania, and violating a PFA may result in criminal charges.

What restrictions does a PFA impose?

The restrictions imposed by a PFA may vary depending on the details of the case’s severity. Below are some common provisions you might encounter if served with a PFA order:

• Prohibition on committing future acts of domestic violence.
• Requirement to vacate shared residences, granting the plaintiff exclusive access.
• A ban on engaging with the plaintiff via any form of communication, including social media, direct messaging, or third-party contact.
• Potential award of full custody of minor children to the plaintiff if circumstances warrant.
• Legal obligation to fulfill financial commitments such as child support or spousal support payments, among others.

Violating any of these terms can have serious legal consequences. To fully understand your rights and obligations, it’s recommended that you consult a Mercer criminal lawyer as soon as possible after being served.

Essential Steps to Take After Receiving a PFA

Avoid conflicts with the plaintiff

One of the most crucial elements of navigating a PFA case is keeping calm and avoiding altercations with the plaintiff. Attempting to contact or challenge the order directly will only harm your case by making you seem uncooperative or hostile in the eyes of the court. Take the situation seriously and respect the legal framework of the order. In some cases, especially where alcohol or substance use is a factor, a Mercer DUI attorney may also be needed to help address overlapping legal issues that arise alongside the PFA.

Read the order thoroughly

The PFA order details all your legal obligations and restrictions. Carefully reviewing the paperwork is critical. You’ll find the terms, conditions, and court dates outlined clearly. Any misstep could lead to additional legal challenges, so make sure you fully understand the document’s requirements.

Do not neglect the order

Feeling overwhelmed is a natural reaction to receiving a PFA order, but ignoring it can have severe consequences. The order becomes effective immediately upon receipt, and any delay in acting may affect your ability to mount a defense. Connect with a trusted Mercer criminal lawyer or a reliable DUI attorney immediately to ensure you meet all legal deadlines and obligations.

Why Choose Attorney Sean Logue?

If you’re dealing with a Protection from Abuse order in Mercer, Attorney Sean Logue and his legal team are here to provide the dedicated guidance and support you need. With years of experience defending similar cases, we strive to safeguard your rights and mitigate the potential impact of legal proceedings.

Contact us today at 844.PITT.DUI for professional legal support from your trusted Mercer DUI attorney. Protecting your future is just a phone call away!