PFA Orders – The Dos and Don’ts

Domestic violence is a serious offense in Ohio, and the state has implemented strong measures to protect survivors. One such measure allows victims to file a Protection from Abuse (PFA) petition against the accused. This legal tool provides crucial protection from physical and emotional harm. Alarmingly, PFA cases in Steubenville have increased by 5% over the past five years, underscoring the ongoing threat of domestic violence in our community.

If you’re facing a PFA order or have already been charged, seeking guidance from an experienced attorney is essential. These legal professionals understand the complexities of PFA proceedings and can help you navigate the process correctly. Because state laws surrounding PFA orders can be nuanced, defendants must exercise extreme caution. Even a seemingly minor mistake can result in contempt charges, leading to penalties and fines.

Wondering what you should and shouldn’t do during a PFA proceeding? Continue reading for reliable information from Logue Law Group and an experienced Steubenville DUI attorney.

What You Should Avoid After Being Charged with a PFA

Learning that you’ve been charged with a PFA can feel overwhelming and confusing. At first, you may struggle to understand what actions you should take to avoid further legal complications. Domestic violence accusations carry serious weight and can impact your reputation. If you’re found in contempt of the order, the situation becomes significantly more complicated.

To protect yourself from contempt charges, you need to understand the specific terms of your PFA. There are three types of PFA orders: emergency, ex-parte, and final. Most people receive either an emergency or ex-parte PFA, as final orders are typically reserved for the most severe cases.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to contact the plaintiff. Even something as simple as sending a text message that says “hello” can create serious legal problems. The plaintiff can use any form of communication against you in court. This is why following the advice of your Steubenville criminal lawyer is absolutely critical. Their guidance becomes invaluable when dealing with the complexities of PFA orders.

Remember that violating the order carries serious consequences. The minimum punishment includes six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, and authorities enforce these penalties strictly.

Key Actions to Avoid:

• Do not contact the plaintiff through any means— phone, text, email, or social media
• Do not visit locations where you might encounter the plaintiff
• Do not ask friends or family to contact the plaintiff on your behalf
• Do not ignore the order’s terms, even if they seem unreasonable
• Do not assume the order has expired without official confirmation

What You Should Do After Being Charged with a PFA

If you’re feeling uncertain about your next steps after receiving a PFA order, you’re not alone. Working with a qualified Steubenville DUI attorney can provide the clarity you need during this challenging time.

Start by carefully reviewing every specification mentioned in your order. Each PFA case contains unique requirements tailored to the specific situation. For example, some orders explicitly prohibit firearm possession, while others may restrict contact with the plaintiff’s family members, friends, or minor children.

Always follow the order exactly as written until the court officially modifies or dismisses it. Don’t make assumptions about what’s allowed or try to interpret the terms on your own.

Recommended Steps to Take:

• Read your PFA order thoroughly and make note of all restrictions
• Contact a legal professional immediately to discuss your case
• Comply with all terms listed in the order, no matter how inconvenient
• Document everything related to your case, including dates and interactions
• Attend all court hearings as required
• Maintain a safe distance from the plaintiff and any locations mentioned in the order
• Keep copies of the order with you at all times

When it comes to handling PFA cases in Steubenville, Steubenville criminal lawyer Sean Logue brings extensive experience to the table. He understands the local court system and has successfully helped numerous clients navigate these complex proceedings.

Understanding the Types of PFA Orders

Knowing which type of PFA order you’re dealing with helps you understand what to expect:

Emergency PFA Orders: Issued immediately when there’s imminent danger, these orders provide short-term protection until a full hearing can be scheduled.

Ex-Parte PFA Orders: Granted without the defendant being present at the hearing, these temporary orders remain in effect until a full court hearing takes place where both parties can present their cases.

Final PFA Orders: Issued after a full hearing where both sides present evidence, these orders can remain in effect for extended periods depending on the court’s decision.

The Consequences of Violating a PFA Order

Violating a PFA order, even unintentionally, triggers serious legal consequences. Ohio courts treat these violations with utmost seriousness because they involve the safety of abuse survivors.

If you’re found in contempt of a PFA order, you face:

• A minimum of six months in jail
• Fines starting at $1,000
• Additional criminal charges
• A permanent mark on your criminal record
• Potential impact on employment opportunities
• Complications in child custody matters

These penalties exist to ensure that protective orders serve their intended purpose. Law enforcement agencies respond immediately to reported violations, and prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively.

How Legal Representation Helps Your Case

Working with a Steubenville criminal lawyer provides several important advantages when dealing with a PFA order:

Understanding Your Rights: An experienced attorney explains your legal rights and ensures the court respects them throughout the process.

Case Strategy: Your lawyer develops a strategy tailored to your specific situation, considering all the facts and circumstances involved.

Court Representation: Having professional representation during hearings demonstrates that you take the matter seriously and ensures your side of the story is heard effectively.

Negotiation: In some cases, your Steubenville DUI attorney may negotiate modifications to the order’s terms or work toward a resolution that protects everyone involved.

Avoiding Mistakes: Legal professionals help you avoid common pitfalls that could worsen your situation or lead to contempt charges.

Protecting Your Future

A PFA order affects multiple aspects of your life beyond just the legal implications. It can impact your housing situation, employment prospects, child custody arrangements, and reputation in the community.

Taking the right steps from the beginning helps minimize these impacts. By working with a qualified Steubenville DUI attorney who understands PFA cases, you give yourself the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.

Don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you connect with an experienced professional, the better positioned you’ll be to handle your case effectively.

Get the Legal Support You Need

When you’re facing a PFA order in Steubenville, Attorney Sean Logue offers the experience and dedication you need. He has handled numerous PFA cases and understands the local court system thoroughly.

Call Steubenville criminal lawyer at 844.PITT.DUI today for a free consultation about any aspect of your PFA case. During this consultation, you’ll receive honest answers to your questions and learn about your options moving forward. Don’t face this challenging situation alone— get the professional legal support that can make a real difference in your case.