PFA Orders – The Dos and Don’ts

Domestic violence is a serious crime in Pennsylvania, and the state has implemented legal measures to protect survivors. Filing a Protection From Abuse (PFA) petition grants victims a legal safeguard from further physical or emotional harm. Disturbingly, PFA-related cases in Indiana, PA, have seen a 5% rise in the past five years, demonstrating the pressing issue of domestic violence.

If you’ve been served a PFA order or charged with violating one, it is crucial to understand your rights and obligations. Consulting an experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer is a vital first step to navigating these legal challenges. Defendants must exercise caution with every action, as even small missteps can lead to contempt charges, heavy fines, or jail time.

Wondering what you should and shouldn’t do if faced with a PFA? Here’s a guide with critical information to help you take the right steps.

What Should You Not Do After a PFA Is Issued?

Receiving notice of a PFA order can feel overwhelming and confusing. The immediate question is often, What should I do to stay out of legal trouble? Understanding what not to do is just as vital.

Major Don’ts When Facing a PFA:

1. Do Not Contact the Plaintiff

Any form of contact—even a seemingly harmless text—can land you in serious trouble. Plaintiffs can use your messages or interactions against you in court. This applies to direct communication and indirect contact through mutual friends or acquaintances.

2. Do Not Ignore the Terms of the Order

A PFA order often comes with specific restrictions, such as staying away from certain locations or refraining from contact with the plaintiff’s family or children. Violating these terms, even accidentally, can lead to contempt charges.

3. Do Not Dismiss Legal Representation

Attempting to handle a PFA alone is risky. The intricacies of Pennsylvania’s PFA laws make it essential to have an experienced Indiana PA DUI attorney guide you through the process.

4. Do Not Possess Prohibited Items

Many PFA orders will explicitly forbid possession of firearms or other potentially dangerous items. Failure to comply could result in additional penalties.

Note that violating a PFA can result in a minimum sentence of six months in jail, along with fines that can reach as high as $1,000. Listen to the counsel of your attorney to avoid escalating the situation.

What Should You Do After Receiving a PFA?

While it is essential to avoid the actions outlined above, knowing the proper steps to take after receiving a PFA will help you protect your rights.

Steps to Take After a PFA Is Filed Against You:

1. Understand the Type of PFA Filed

There are three types of PFA orders in Pennsylvania:

• Emergency PFA (issued during non-court hours; temporary)
• Ex-Parte PFA (issued before a court hearing, valid for up to 10 days)
• Final PFA (issued after a hearing, lasting up to three years)

Knowing the specifics of the order you’re served with will help you determine your next steps.

2. Hire a Skilled Criminal Lawyer

An experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer is essential for understanding your rights, crafting a defense, and navigating court hearings. Attorney Sean Logue is one of the most trusted legal experts in Indiana, PA, with a track record of defending clients successfully in PFA cases.

3. Abide by All Restrictions in the PFA

Carefully read and follow every detail of the PFA order. Restrictions may include:

• Staying a certain distance away from the plaintiff
• Avoiding contact with specific family members or friends
• Refraining from firearm possession

Adhering to these terms can protect you from additional penalties.

4. Document Events and Evidence

Keep a detailed record of everything related to the PFA. This can include text messages, emails, or any other evidence that supports your version of events. Your attorney may use this documentation to challenge false allegations effectively.

5. Prepare for the Court Hearing

With your attorney’s help, gather all necessary documents and evidence to present during the court hearing. This is your opportunity to contest the PFA and present your side of the story.

Employment and PFA Orders

PFA orders can also have significant implications on your career. Employers may act cautiously if they discover you’re facing a PFA. For example:

• Workplace Challenges

Some employers may suspend employees or place them on unpaid leave during ongoing PFA cases.

• Background Checks

Job seekers might find it harder to secure employment since PFAs can appear in background checks, raising red flags for potential employers.

To manage these challenges, consult an Indiana PA DUI attorney to address employment-related implications proactively.

Why Work With a Trusted Indiana PA Criminal Lawyer?

Facing a PFA order can feel like navigating a minefield of legal obstacles. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Attorney Sean Logue and his team specialize in PFA cases in Indiana, PA, offering informed guidance tailored to your unique situation.

Here’s why you should choose Attorney Logue:

• Extensive experience with Pennsylvania’s PFA system
• Compassionate, client-centered legal strategies
• Proven success in reducing or dismissing PFA-related charges

For immediate assistance, contact Sean Logue at 844.PITT.DUI for a free consultation today.