Pennsylvania Civil Penalties

When the law addresses domestic violence in Pennsylvania, it is treated with the severity of a hate crime. While there is no specific statute explicitly named “domestic violence,” the punishments for these offenses are generally handled with the same level of seriousness. If you have been served with a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order, you are in a precarious legal position. It is critical that you find legal assistance in Berks County immediately to protect your future.

At Mountaineer Law Group, we recognize how serious the civil penalties attached to PFA orders can be. We know this is an exhausting and high-stress time for you. To help you get through this process, we have gathered the essential details regarding the penalties you are likely to face. Because these orders can be complex, having a knowledgeable Morgantown criminal lawyer to guide you is often the safest path forward.

Although a PFA is classified as a civil matter, do not make the mistake of taking it lightly. These cases are argued in civil court with a plaintiff and a defendant, but that does not reduce the gravity of the consequences. If you or a family member is dealing with a PFA order, you need professional direction. Consulting with a skilled Morgantown DUI attorney from our team can provide the strategic advice necessary to handle this difficult situation.

Pennsylvania Civil Penalties in PFA Orders

According to state law 23 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6108, a judge can hand down a variety of civil penalties during a PFA hearing. These penalties can drastically change your life, affecting your parental rights and even your ability to own a firearm. Here is a closer look at some of the primary penalties you may encounter:

No Contact With the Plaintiff

One of the most standard restrictions in a PFA order is a ban on contacting the plaintiff. The main goal of these orders is to prevent further acts of domestic violence. To achieve this, the court will often mandate zero contact. This usually includes no phone calls, texts, emails, or physical visits. To fully understand these boundaries, a Morgantown criminal lawyer can review the specific terms of your order with you.

Zero Contact Policy Might Extend to Other People

The “no contact” rule in a PFA order often extends beyond just the plaintiff. The order may also prohibit you from contacting other specific people, such as mutual friends or relatives. The details of who you must avoid will be written in the order. It is vital to have a clear explanation of these terms to ensure you do not accidentally violate the order.

Child Custody

PFA proceedings can be incredibly emotional, particularly when there are minor children involved. In many instances, the court will grant temporary custody to the plaintiff immediately. This often requires the defendant to have zero contact with their own children. While this is painful, you must comply with the court’s decision. For support during this time, reaching out to a Morgantown DUI attorney at our group can help you understand your rights regarding custody.

Living Situations

If you share a home with the plaintiff and receive a PFA order, you must act immediately. You will likely be required to move out without delay, as you cannot share a household with the plaintiff while the case is active. This can be challenging, but following the order strictly is necessary to avoid harsher penalties. We suggest staying with friends or family, as finding a rental property can be difficult when you have a pending PFA order.

For a strong defense against PFA charges, contact Sean Logue. He is a recognized attorney ready to assist you. Call (304) 381-3656 today for a free consultation that could make a significant difference in your case.