Pennsylvania PFA Expungement Attorney

At Mountaineer Law Group, we are committed to providing you with accurate and vital information regarding PFA orders in Pennsylvania. If you are facing a restraining order in this state, it is legally termed a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order. These orders fall under the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania’s civil courts and are designed to offer legal protection to individuals facing abuse from domestic partners or family members. While similar to a standard restraining order, a PFA specifically targets domestic relationships, which can result in significant limitations on the civil rights of the accused individual.

Let’s explore the different categories of PFA orders that can be issued in Pennsylvania.

Full Order

Also referred to as a Final Order, this type of PFA can remain in effect for up to three years, depending on the severity of the allegations. The Court of Common Pleas in your county handles these cases. During a formal hearing, a judge—and potentially a jury—will carefully examine all evidence and testimony provided by both the defendant and the plaintiff to determine the outcome. If you have been summoned for a final PFA hearing, having a skilled Morgantown criminal lawyer by your side is essential for your legal defense.

Temporary PFA Order

This order is designed to offer immediate protection to the plaintiff and any children involved until a final hearing can be held. During this time, a strict no-contact order is enforced between you and the plaintiff. It is critical that you strictly follow all conditions outlined in the temporary PFA order to avoid further legal complications.

Emergency PFA Order

In situations where there is an immediate danger to the plaintiff or minor children and the Court of Common Pleas is closed (such as on weekends or evenings), a magisterial district judge can issue an emergency PFA order. This order typically remains valid until the next business day, at which point the plaintiff must petition for a temporary PFA order.

At Mountaineer Law Group, we recognize the stress and uncertainty you face. We are dedicated to helping you navigate this challenging legal landscape. Securing representation from an experienced Morgantown DUI attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Let us advocate for your rights.

Pennsylvania Expungement of PFA Order

When considering the expungement of a PFA order in Pennsylvania, it is important to understand that these orders become part of the court’s public record. Unfortunately, having a PFA on your record can negatively affect your reputation, even if you were never convicted of a crime. However, there are two specific scenarios in which you may be eligible to have a PFA order expunged from your record:

• The plaintiff voluntarily withdraws or dismisses the PFA petition.
• Both parties reach an agreement or reconciliation outside of court proceedings.

To successfully navigate the complex expungement process, it is highly recommended to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable Morgantown criminal lawyer. They can provide the necessary guidance to ensure that this incident does not remain on your permanent public record. A PFA order on your history can lead to unfair judgment from employers, landlords, and others.

If you are seeking top-tier legal representation in the Berks County area, consider Sean Logue. He can be reached at (304) 381-3656. With extensive experience and strong professional relationships with judges and courts throughout Pennsylvania, he can help make the expungement of your PFA case a smoother and more manageable process. Don’t let a past PFA order define your future— contact a Morgantown DUI attorney today for assistance.