Ways a PFA Order Can Be Vacated in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania considers domestic violence-related crimes to be serious offenses, ranking them among the top hate crimes committed in the state. The Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders, designed to provide hope and safety for victims of physical and mental abuse, allow individuals to seek court orders for zero contact with their abusers. However, obtaining a PFA order can have profound consequences on the accused individuals’ lives. If you find yourself facing the confusion and stress of a PFA order, it is crucial to seek guidance from a reputable Butler PA PFA lawyer.

At Logue Law Group, we understand the complexities of PFA charges and can provide crucial information on how to request the state to reconsider or vacate your situation. Dealing with a PFA order requires the assistance of an experienced Butler PA criminal lawyer who can ensure your rights are protected and provide you with equitable representation.

What is a PFA order?

A Protection from Abuse order is a significant initiative by the state to protect its citizens from potential domestic abuse threats. The duration of the protection is determined by a judge and jury, and both the plaintiff and the accused must adhere to the rules and regulations outlined in the order.

The court system strives for fairness, allowing both parties ample opportunity to present their case. Engaging the services of a professional Butler PA DUI lawyer is imperative to receive just representation.

The duration and penalties associated with the protection typically depend on two factors:

• The nature of the domestic relationship between the parties involved.
• The occurrence of a domestic violence incident.

It is important to note that domestic violence extends beyond physical harm. The state recognizes that it can encompass various forms, including stalking, online threats, persistent attempts to meet the plaintiff, and more. As a defendant, strict adherence to the law is crucial to avoiding severe consequences.

How to Vacate from a PFA Order?

While relatively rare, there are instances where the court may be willing to reconsider your case. The civil courts of Pennsylvania generally grant vacation or reconsideration of the order under specific conditions.

You Didn’t Have an Idea About the Hearing

When you file a temporary PFA, attending the hearing for the final PFA order becomes crucial. Normally, there is a 10-day gap between the court hearings, but this timeframe may vary depending on the severity of your case. If the police fail to communicate the new hearing date on time, the court will extend the temporary PFA to a later date.

You Have a Good Reason

If your attorney can present a legitimate cause for your absence on the last hearing date, the court will be open to reconsideration. However, it is important that these reasons are substantial and not frivolous.

Improper Jurisdiction

You have the opportunity to successfully vacate a PFA order if the court failed to serve you properly. However, you must provide evidence of unsatisfactory “court service.”

For a robust defense in court and expert assistance in having your case reconsidered, rely on the expertise of Sean Logue, an experienced Butler PA criminal lawyer. Call 412-389-0805 today!