PFA Orders – The Dos and Don’ts

Domestic violence is a serious issue in Pennsylvania. To protect survivors, the state allows them to file for a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order against an alleged abuser. This legal document is designed to shield individuals from further physical or emotional harm. The severity of this problem is underscored by the fact that over the last five years, PFA cases in Wellsburg have risen by 5%, showing a troubling trend.

If you are facing a PFA order or have had one filed against you, it is vital to get legal advice from an experienced Wellsburg criminal lawyer. These professionals have the knowledge to help you navigate the process correctly. The laws around PFA orders can be complex and are not always clearly laid out, which means defendants must be extremely careful. Any small mistake could lead to being found in contempt of the PFA, which brings on additional penalties and fines.

Want to know what you should and should not do during a PFA proceeding? Keep reading for reliable information from the Logue Law Group.

What Should You Not Do After a PFA Is Filed?

Being notified that a PFA has been filed against you can be a confusing and upsetting experience. It’s often hard to know what steps to take to avoid getting into more trouble with the authorities. Domestic violence allegations are taken very seriously and can have social consequences. If you are found in contempt of the order, things will only get more complicated.

To protect yourself from contempt charges, you must understand the details of the PFA order. It’s important to consult with a knowledgeable Wellsburg criminal lawyer who can explain the specifics. There are three kinds of PFA orders:

• Emergency PFA: Typically granted by an on-call judge outside of normal court hours when a person is in immediate danger.
• Ex-Parte PFA: A temporary order granted without the defendant being present, based on the plaintiff’s testimony.
• Final PFA: A long-term order issued after a court hearing where both sides can present their case.

Most often, you will initially face an emergency or ex-parte PFA, as final orders are issued after a formal hearing.

Under no circumstances should you try to contact the person who filed the PFA (the plaintiff). Even a simple text message like “hello” can be used against you and cause serious legal trouble. Your messages or any other form of communication will likely be presented as evidence. It is essential to follow the advice of a seasoned Wellsburg criminal lawyer. Their guidance is invaluable when handling these complex orders. Violating the order can lead to a minimum sentence of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, as law enforcement takes these breaches very seriously.

What to Do After a PFA Has Been Filed Against You?

If you feel lost and unsure about what to do after receiving a PFA order, don’t panic. Hiring a qualified Wellsburg DUI attorney can bring much-needed clarity to your situation. You must carefully read all the conditions listed in the order, as each case can have different rules. For example, some PFAs might specifically prohibit you from owning firearms, contacting the plaintiff’s family and friends, or even seeing your own children. A lawyer can help ensure you understand every detail.

You must follow the order exactly as it is written until the court modifies or dismisses it. When it comes to handling PFA cases, there is no substitute for experience. In Wellsburg, Attorney Sean Logue is a trusted Wellsburg DUI attorney. Call him at 844.PITT.DUI for a free consultation on any part of your PFA case.