Social Media and PFA Cases in West Virginia

Online communication is a huge part of our daily lives. We use everything from emails and texts to Facebook messages and Instagram notifications to keep in touch. However, if you receive a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order, it’s vital to understand the serious restrictions it places on your online activities.

Understanding PFAs in West Virginia

West Virginia takes domestic violence very seriously, addressing it under existing criminal laws. There isn’t a separate section just for domestic violence, which means a PFA violation can carry penalties similar to other violent crimes. The complexity of these orders can sometimes lead to unintentional violations. To avoid these pitfalls, getting advice from a skilled Wheeling criminal lawyer is essential. At Logue Law Group, we are committed to helping people understand how a PFA Order can affect their social media use.

What Is a PFA Order and Who Can File One?

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order is a legal document intended to stop domestic violence between people in “domestic settings.” It covers a range of issues, including mental harassment, stalking, and sexual assault. Once a PFA order is active, the court and state police are involved to ensure there is absolutely no contact between the individuals named in the order.

A victim who lives with or shares a space with an abuser has the right to file for a PFA. This can include a wide range of relationships:

• Current and former partners, both sexual and non-sexual
• Current and former spouses
• Minor children
• People living with a spouse
• Same-sex couples, whether married or not
• Family members like siblings and parents
• Individuals who have a child together

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at how social media fits into PFA situations. Presenting this information clearly helps everyone understand PFA cases and their social media implications. A knowledgeable Wheeling DUI attorney can provide further clarification on these matters.

Your Online Presence During PFA Proceedings

When you are involved in PFA proceedings, it is critical that your online behavior strictly follows the order’s rules. You must not deny or ignore any part of the order that limits social media contact with the person who filed it.

Additionally, you must avoid sharing any details about the court case or the plaintiff online. If you fail to follow the PFA order on social media, you could face severe penalties. In these situations, it’s highly recommended to consult a reputable Wheeling criminal lawyer for specific instructions on how to handle your social media accounts.

If children are involved and communication is necessary, it’s best to keep discussions strictly about the children. Talking about other topics could negatively impact your case. Your DUI attorney can give you detailed advice on how to manage these conversations.

When facing difficult legal challenges like a PFA, Attorney Sean Logue is an excellent choice to represent you. His expertise will help ensure your PFA proceedings move forward as smoothly as possible. Contact Wheeling DUI attorney at 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free consultation today!