Violation Via Text Messaging in PFA Orders

Navigating a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order can be a complicated and emotionally taxing experience. If you’re in this situation, it’s important to remember that you’re not going through it alone. Over the last five years, there has been an 8% increase in PFA orders in the Wellsburg area, and legal experts anticipate this trend will continue to grow. These court orders carry significant and long-lasting consequences for an individual’s life and must be handled with the utmost seriousness.

While PFA orders come with a variety of restrictions, a common misunderstanding is that contacting the plaintiff via text message is not a violation. Let’s be clear: this belief is incorrect. At Logue Law Group, we’ve gathered crucial information for anyone who is facing or has been served with a PFA, specifically addressing violations through text messages. Understanding the rules and following the correct procedures is essential for anyone involved in a PFA case. A knowledgeable Wellsburg criminal lawyer can provide the guidance you need.

What exactly is a PFA Order?

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is a legal measure put in place by the state to protect its residents from domestic violence, which can be either physical or psychological. The person who claims to be a victim, known as the plaintiff, can file for a PFA if they are experiencing abuse or believe they are in danger of being harmed.

The court provides this civil protection for individuals who live in a ‘common household’ or share ‘minor children.’ The people who are eligible to request this state protection include:

• Current or former spouses
• Current or former partners who have lived together
• Parents of a shared child
• Individuals who have previously dated, and others

Now that we’ve covered what a PFA is and who can file for one, let’s explore what constitutes a violation. It’s surprisingly common for individuals to unintentionally violate a PFA order. To stay on the right side of the law, you need to follow specific rules. This is where an experienced Wellsburg criminal lawyer can be an invaluable resource. Among the many ways a PFA order can be violated, sending text messages is one of the most significant risks.

Breaching PFA Orders With Text Messages

We recognize that texting is a fundamental part of modern life, offering a quick and straightforward way to communicate. However, when a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is active against you, it is vital to understand the serious repercussions of this everyday action. The state of Pennsylvania enforces PFA order breaches strictly, requiring complete adherence to the established rules. Your Wellsburg DUI attorney can help you navigate these complex regulations.

The specific terms of a PFA order strictly forbid any kind of contact with the involved parties, which extends to communication through friends and family members. This court-ordered restriction is designed to prevent further conflict in sensitive domestic violence cases, which often involve people with close personal histories. Failing to comply with these rules can lead to harsh penalties, which may include time in jail. A skilled Wellsburg criminal lawyer will emphasize the importance of following these orders precisely.

It’s important to understand that even a message that seems harmless, like sending a simple ‘hello’ text to the alleged victim, can lead to severe legal consequences. You must follow the advice of your legal counsel and avoid any form of communication that could be seen as a violation of the court’s directive. Consulting with a Wellsburg DUI attorney is crucial for successfully managing a PFA case and can help ease the significant stress you may be under. Sean Logue brings extensive experience and a strong track record in handling PFA cases, offering expert services customized to your situation. Take the first step toward a positive resolution by contacting us today at 844.PITT.DUI for a no-cost consultation with a dedicated lawyer.