Pennsylvania Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order FAQs

When a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is filed against you, it is normal to feel a sense of confusion and despair. The ripple effects of a PFA can be catastrophic to your personal and professional life. How does one maneuver through the complicated legal landscape of a PFA order? You don’t have to do it alone. Mountaineer Law Group has put together a detailed list of frequently asked questions to help clarify your situation and alleviate your doubts.

Once you have a better understanding of the details regarding the order, it is vital that you get in touch with a legal professional who can walk you through the court proceedings in Berks County.

What Are the Most Common Questions Regarding Protection From Abuse Orders?

I was just served with a PFA notice. What steps should I take immediately?

This is a worry shared by almost everyone in this situation. When an accuser files for a “temporary” or “ex-parte” PFA order against you, your priority must be to secure legal representation. Domestic cases are notoriously difficult for the courts to adjudicate, often because there is little physical evidence at the start.

Even though this is a civil matter, the judicial system in Pennsylvania treats these orders with extreme gravity, and you must do the same. Because the fallout from these orders can be severe, retaining a Morgantown criminal lawyer is essential to protecting your civil rights. In situations where minor children are involved, having a robust legal defense is often the only way to ensure you maintain your visitation or custody rights.

Is a PFA order going to ruin my career?

To be completely honest, yes, it certainly can. This is often the most frightening consequence of a PFA order. Whether you work in the private sector or for the government, a PFA can trigger serious repercussions for your employment status. Your boss may be forced to place you on temporary leave or, in worse scenarios, fire you entirely.

Certain professions are more vulnerable than others. If you work in law enforcement, the medical field, or education, you are highly susceptible to reputational harm because society generally views those with PFA orders against them in a negative light. To navigate this legal minefield and try to get your life back on track, a Morgantown DUI attorney with experience in collateral consequences can be instrumental in your defense strategy.

Will I be evicted from my home if a PFA is issued?

When a Berks County court grants a Protection From Abuse order, the primary goal is to ensure the safety of the alleged victim from any potential mental or physical harm. These orders usually apply to people who are in a domestic partnership or living arrangement. As a result, the person accused is often forced to find somewhere else to stay immediately, as the judge has the power to evict them from the residence shared with the victim.

If there are children in the home, the accused might also be forced to hand over full custody to the accuser until the final hearing resolves the matter. If you are evicted, you must strictly obey the order; do not attempt to enter the property. Doing so can lead to severe fines and further penalties. To fight an unfair eviction or custody ruling, consulting with a Morgantown criminal lawyer is your best course of action.

These are just a few of the questions people frequently ask when facing the stress of a PFA. If you need help addressing your specific concerns, we strongly suggest you contact our lead attorney, Sean Logue. He has a history of successfully defending clients against PFA accusations. Reach out to us at (304) 381-3656 to speak with a Morgantown DUI attorney for a free consultation today!