PFA Orders – The Dos and Don’ts

In Pennsylvania, domestic violence is treated with utmost seriousness. To safeguard survivors, the state permits the filing of a Protection from Abuse (PFA) petition against an alleged abuser. This legal mechanism is designed to shield victims from physical and emotional harm. It is alarming to note that PFA cases in Morgantown have seen a 5% increase over the last five years, underscoring the growing threat of domestic violence in our community.

If you are facing a PFA order or have recently been served with one, it is vital to consult with a knowledgeable Morgantown criminal lawyer. They have the necessary skills to guide you through this complex process. Since the laws regarding PFA orders can be somewhat ambiguous, defendants must be extremely careful. Even a minor unintentional violation can result in a contempt of court charge, leading to significant fines and penalties.

Wondering how to navigate a PFA proceeding without making critical mistakes? Read on for reliable advice from the experts at Mountaineer Law Group.

What Should You Not Do After a PFA Gets Charged?

Being served with a PFA can be a confusing and stressful experience. At first, it might be hard to know the right steps to take to avoid further scrutiny from the state police. Accusations of domestic violence are serious and often carry a social stigma. If you are found in contempt of the order, your legal situation will deteriorate rapidly.

To protect yourself from contempt charges, you need to understand the specific details of the PFA issued against you. There are three main types of PFA orders:

• Emergency
• Ex-parte
• Final

Typically, you will initially face an emergency or ex-parte PFA, as final orders are reserved for more extreme or resolved situations.

It is critical that you do not attempt to contact the plaintiff under any circumstances. Sending a simple “hello” text can lead to severe legal consequences. The plaintiff can use any message or attempt at communication as evidence against you. You must follow the advice of your experienced Morgantown DUI attorney. Their guidance is essential when handling the intricacies of PFA orders. Violating the order can lead to a minimum sentence of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, as authorities enforce these orders strictly.

What to Do After a PFA Has Got Charged Against You?

If you feel overwhelmed after receiving a PFA order, you are not alone. Engaging a proficient Morgantown criminal lawyer can offer clarity and direction during this difficult time. It is imperative to carefully read and understand the specific restrictions listed in the order, as every case is different.

Common restrictions might include:

• Prohibitions on possessing firearms.
• No contact with the plaintiff’s friends or family members.
• Restrictions on interactions with minor children.

You must adhere to the order strictly until the court modifies it. When navigating PFA cases in Berks County, few are as experienced as Attorney Sean Logue. Contact him at (304) 381-3656 for a free consultation regarding your PFA case.