Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a serious issue in Pennsylvania, and law enforcement agencies handle these cases with utmost seriousness. The top priority is ensuring the safety and protection of individuals, including parents, spouses, and family members, who may be at risk of violence within their homes.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Being informed about the scope of domestic violence is crucial. The following acts are classified as offenses under domestic violence laws in Pennsylvania:

• Stalking
• Criminal Trespass
• Harassment
• Violation of Protective Order
• Domestic Assault
• Endangering the Welfare of Children
• Child Abuse
• Sexual Assault
• Kidnapping
• Homicide

Pennsylvania’s legal framework is designed to protect victims of domestic violence. However, it is equally important to recognize that some false allegations of domestic violence are made in contexts like child custody disputes or divorce proceedings. Regardless of the charges you face, it is essential to safeguard your rights by securing legal representation from a trusted New Castle DUI attorney. At Logue Law Group, we are fully committed to protecting your rights and interests.

Pennsylvania Laws on Domestic Violence

Important Definitions in Pennsylvania Law

To better understand the charges you may be facing, you must familiarize yourself with key terms outlined in Pennsylvania Code Title 18 §6102:

• Cohabit:

Living with another person in a manner resembling a marital or family relationship.

• Family or Household Member:

Includes the following individuals:

• Current or former spouses
• Persons related by blood or marriage
• Individuals who share a biological child
• Current or former sexual partners
• Cohabiters or those who have previously lived together
• Harass:

Engaging in behavior intended to annoy, alarm, or emotionally disturb another person.

We are here to guide and support you during these challenging times. Trust Logue Law Group to defend your rights effectively with assistance from an experienced New Castle DUI attorney.

What Constitutes Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse involves intentionally inflicting harm or initiating non-consensual acts such as bodily injury, rape, sexual assault (with or without a weapon), child abuse, or false imprisonment on a household or family member. Hence, if you are charged for committing such felonies, make sure to have a New Castle criminal lawyer by your side for a strong defense

Protection from Abuse Order

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is issued by a judge and serves to protect alleged victims. It prohibits individuals from engaging in specific abusive acts and may compel them to undertake certain actions. These court-issued orders carry serious legal implications for the accused, including restrictions on proximity, communication, and behaviors, in addition to potential penalties for violations. That’s why consulting an experienced New Castle DUI attorney is a necessary step in safeguarding your rights

Common Domestic Violence Charges in Pennsylvania

1. Harassment

Harassment refers to intentional acts designed to annoy, alarm, or intimidate another individual. Examples include unwanted physical contact, persistent communication, or purposeless confrontations.

• Classification: Summary offense
• Penalty: Up to 90 days imprisonment and/or a $300 fine
• According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 2709

2. Stalking

Stalking involves repeatedly following or contacting another person and causing significant emotional distress or reasonable fear of harm.

• Classification: First-degree misdemeanor or third-degree felony
• Penalty: Up to 2.5–5 years or 3.5–7 years imprisonment, and fines between $10,000 and $15,000
• According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 2709.1

3. False Imprisonment

False imprisonment occurs when someone knowingly and unlawfully restrains another person without their consent.

• Classification: Second-degree misdemeanor
• Penalty: 1–2 years imprisonment and up to a $5,000 fine
• According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 2903

4. Child Abuse

Child abuse refers to actions in which a parent, guardian, or responsible adult knowingly endangers a child’s welfare through negligence or recklessness.

• Classification: First-degree misdemeanor or third-degree felony depending on the case
• Penalty: 2.5–5 years or 3.5–7 years imprisonment, and fines between $10,000 and $15,000
• According to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6903(b)

5. Sexual Assault

Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual intercourse or acts involving an individual unable to provide consent due to circumstances like incapacity.

• Classification: Second-degree felony
• Penalty: 5–10 years imprisonment and a $25,000 fine
• According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 3122.1

Responding to Protective Order Violations

Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders are issued to safeguard affected individuals from violence or retaliation. These legal orders prohibit the accused from contacting the victim or approaching specific locations such as workplaces, schools, or homes. PFAs may also limit child custody rights and firearm possession. Working with an experienced New Castle criminal lawyer ensures you are equipped with the best defense to counteract these serious accusations.

Violating a PFA carries severe consequences. Offenders may face criminal charges for contempt of court, punishable by up to six months of imprisonment and a fine of $1,000.

Domestic Violence Resources in Pennsylvania

Accessing the right support system is vital in cases of domestic violence. Here are a few organizations in Pennsylvania that provide assistance to victims and families:

• Local Police Department
• AARDVARC – Pennsylvania Division
• PCADV – Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence

So, if you have been charged with any of the above actions, stop waiting and consult a New Castle DUI attorney right away.

Consultation with a New Castle Criminal Lawyer

If you are facing domestic violence charges, having a reliable legal advocate on your side is crucial. At Logue Law Group, our experienced New Castle criminal lawyers are here to provide steadfast support and expert guidance.

Contact us 844.PITT.DUI today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward effectively resolving your situation. Our experienced team will work tirelessly to defend your rights and protect your future.