Defendant’s Survival Guide to PFA Cases

Being served with a PFA (Protection From Abuse) order in Pennsylvania is often an emotionally exhausting experience. It brings significant collateral consequences that can disrupt your daily life. To successfully navigate this difficult legal landscape, it is vital to hire a skilled legal professional who can fight for your rights in court and work to minimize potential penalties.

At Mountaineer Law Group, our team has gathered the essential information you need if you find yourself facing a PFA order. Attorney Sean Logue is here to be your trusted advisor, helping you manage these serious accusations of domestic abuse.

Want to learn more about how to handle a PFA proceeding effectively? Read on.

The Basics of a PFA Order

Who can file for a PFA?

Individuals involved in a domestic relationship can file a PFA case against one another if violence occurs. Generally, this order is designed to protect spouses and live-in partners. When the alleged victim (the plaintiff) requests protection from the defendant (the accused), the court may grant temporary or ex-parte protection.

Is a PFA considered civil or criminal?

A PFA order itself is a civil matter. This means that when you appear in court with your Morgantown criminal lawyer, you aren’t immediately facing criminal charges. However, domestic violence is a crime in Pennsylvania. As a result, while the PFA proceedings happen within the civil court system, violating the order can result in criminal charges.

What restrictions come with a PFA?

The specific restrictions of a PFA depend on the details of the case, but common limitations you might face include:

• Prohibition on abuse: You are strictly forbidden from committing any future acts of domestic abuse.
• Eviction: You may be required to leave your home immediately to provide safety for the alleged victim.
• No contact: You cannot stalk, threaten, or harass the plaintiff via social media, text, or any other communication method.
• Custody changes: The plaintiff may be granted 100% temporary custody of minor children.
• Financial support: You may be legally obligated to pay alimony or child support.

Now that you understand the basics of a PFA order, let’s look at the specific steps you should take if you are served with one.

Steps to Take When Served with a PFA

Do not engage with the plaintiff

This is critical advice that any experienced Morgantown DUI attorney would emphasize. If you try to argue with the plaintiff or contact them in any way, the court will likely rule against you. The state of Pennsylvania takes protection orders very seriously. Under no circumstances should you challenge the order’s authority outside of the courtroom.

Read the order carefully

The PFA document contains all the instructions regarding your legal obligations. It is essential that you read every term and condition outlined in the paperwork and follow them strictly.

Do not ignore the order

Receiving a PFA can be distressing, but ignoring it is a major mistake. The order takes effect the moment you receive it. You must act immediately by contacting a reliable Morgantown criminal lawyer in Berks County to help you treat the situation with the seriousness it demands.

For robust legal defense in Morgantown, Attorney Sean Logue and his team are ready to provide the guidance and support you need. To get help, contact Mountaineer Law Group today at (304) 381-3656.