Collateral Damages of PFAs That You Can Face

If you’ve received a PFA (Protection from Abuse) notice, it’s vital to act quickly and consult an experienced attorney. A criminal lawyer can help you understand the complexities of the law and provide guidance to protect your rights effectively. Although West Virginia doesn’t have a specific statute addressing domestic abuse, it incorporates such cases under the hate crime section. Consequently, claims of violation, harassment, or stalking filed by partners or spouses often result in courts issuing a PFA order to safeguard the alleged victim. For extreme situations, an Emergency Protection from Abuse Order offers temporary relief until a detailed review can occur.

Under West Virginia’s legal framework, PFA orders apply to individuals sharing a domestic relationship, including unmarried couples living together. However, while these orders aim to offer necessary safety, they can also lead to significant collateral damage that can drastically impact various areas of your life.

Below, we’ll explore some potential consequences and how they may affect you.

Eviction from Shared Residence

Immediate Impact

When issued a PFA order, one of the immediate requirements you may face is leaving your shared home. Cohabitation with your domestic partner becomes prohibited, potentially leaving you in need of emergency housing. This sudden upheaval can create significant stress and challenges. It’s during moments like these that having a reliable Weirton DUI attorney by your side can be a game-changer, advocating for your rights and exploring options to mitigate penalties.

Long-Term Challenges

Moving out of your home is only part of the problem. Finding a new place to live can prove difficult, as landlords might hesitate to rent to someone with a history of eviction linked to domestic issues. Facing rejection repeatedly can feel discouraging, but seeking temporary refuge with family or friends who understand your circumstances can provide some stability while exploring solutions.

The Devastating Loss of Child Custody

Custody Implications

A particularly heart-wrenching outcome of PFA cases is the potential loss of child custody. During the proceedings, you may lose custodial rights to children under the age of 18, with the court awarding the alleged victim full custody. This separation can be deeply traumatic for your children, affecting their emotional and mental well-being.

How to Respond

It’s essential to involve an experienced Weirton criminal lawyer to request a court hearing that reevaluates your custody arrangement. If there’s evidence that the other parent is unfit, presenting this information to the court can work in your favor and may result in visitation rights or a shared custody agreement.

Employment and Professional Setbacks

Impacting Your Career

Employment can also suffer as a consequence of a PFA order. You may face challenges like termination from your job, mandated unpaid leave, or difficulty securing new employment opportunities. Workplace reputations can be hard to rebuild, especially in tightly knit communities where personal matters often become public knowledge.

The Road Ahead

Though these challenges are significant, they’re not insurmountable. Consulting with a Weirton DUI attorney early on can help you approach the situation strategically, providing advice to safeguard your current employment and improve your odds of maintaining professional stability.

Why You Should Act Swiftly

Taking a PFA notice lightly is a mistake with far-reaching consequences. The collateral damages associated with such cases can unravel the stability in your life, from losing your home and children to facing challenges at work. The key to minimizing these damages lies in quick action and partnering with a knowledgeable Weirton DUI attorney.

Reach Out to the Best Lawyer

When dealing with the complicated repercussions of a PFA order, expertise matters. Attorney Sean Logue is a trusted and skilled DUI attorney, renowned for his ability to tackle PFA cases with efficiency and care. With years of experience, he can work to reduce penalties and collateral damages, ensuring you receive fair representation.

Call 844.PITT.DUI today for a free consultation or to explore how Weirton criminal lawyer Logue’s dedicated services can help you during this challenging time. Don’t face this situation alone. Get the support and guidance you deserve.