Domestic Violence

The issue of domestic violence remains a serious concern within Mercer, with law enforcement agencies committed to addressing these situations effectively. The primary goal is to protect and ensure the safety of individuals, including parents, spouses, and family members who may be at risk in their households.

Understanding Domestic Violence

To tackle domestic violence effectively, it is crucial to understand what it entails. Acts that are classified as domestic violence under Pennsylvania law include the following:

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

Pennsylvania laws aim to protect victims of domestic violence, but it is important to note that false allegations can sometimes arise, particularly in child custody or divorce cases. No matter what charges you may be facing, it is essential to safeguard your rights by seeking legal assistance from a qualified Mercer DUI attorney. At Logue Law Group, we are dedicated to defending your rights and providing the necessary legal support.

Pennsylvania Domestic Violence Laws

Key Terms to Know

To better understand domestic violence charges in Mercer, you should familiarize yourself with some important terms as defined in Pennsylvania Code Title 18 §6102. These include:

Cohabit

When two people live together as though they are married or part of the same family.

Family or Household Member

This term includes individuals such as:

Spouses or ex-spouses
Biological parents of a child
Individuals related by blood or marriage
Current or former sexual partners
Cohabiters and those who have previously cohabited

Harass

Acts aimed to intentionally annoy or alarm another individual, including persistent communication and unwanted physical contact.

If you require legal guidance during this challenging time, a Mercer DUI attorney at Logue Law Group is here to help.

Domestic Abuse Defined

Domestic abuse involves the intentional infliction of bodily harm, rape, sexual assault, false imprisonment, or child abuse on a family or household member.

Protection From Abuse Order (PFA)

A Protection From Abuse order is a legal measure issued by the court to protect victims of domestic violence. This may involve prohibiting a perpetrator from committing specific acts or requiring them to adhere to certain actions to prevent further abuse.

Common Domestic Violence Charges in Mercer

Harassment

Harassment includes actions meant to annoy, alarm, or physically contact another person against their will, persistently follow them, or engage in unwarranted communication.

Penalties:
- Summary offense
- Up to 90 days imprisonment
- Fines up to $300
- Defined under 18 Pa.C.S. § 2709

Stalking

Stalking refers to repeatedly following or contacting a person, causing severe distress or fear of bodily harm.

Penalties:
- Classified as a first-degree misdemeanor or third-degree felony
- Imprisonment ranging from 2.5 to 7 years
- Fines range from $10,000 to $15,000
- Defined under 18 Pa.C.S. § 2709.1

False Imprisonment

This involves unlawfully restraining someone against their will knowingly.

Penalties:
- Classified as a second-degree misdemeanor
- 1 to 2 years imprisonment
- Fines up to $5,000
- Defined under 18 Pa.C.S. § 2903

Child Abuse

Child abuse occurs when a parent or guardian knowingly harms or recklessly endangers the welfare of a child.

Penalties:
- Classified as a first-degree misdemeanor or third-degree felony, depending on the case
- Imprisonment ranging from 2.5 to 7 years
- Fines between $10,000 and $15,000
- Defined under 23 Pa.C.S. § 6903(b)

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is engaging in non-consensual sexual intercourse or such acts with someone incapable of providing consent.

Penalties:
- Classified as a second-degree felony
- Imprisonment of 5 to 10 years
- Fines up to $25,000
- Defined under 18 Pa. C.S. § 3122.1

Responding to Violations of Protective Orders

Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders play a vital role in protecting victims. These orders prohibit the perpetrator from coming near the victim, including at work or school, and from contacting them through any means. Additionally, PFAs restrict weapons possession and may limit child custody rights for the accused.

Violating a PFA order carries severe legal consequences in Mercer, including the potential for up to six months imprisonment and fines up to $1,000 for contempt of court offenses.