Types of PFA Orders and Their Consequences

Receiving a Protection from Abuse (PFA) notice is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. It requires immediate action and professional legal assistance from an Erie criminal lawyer. Without the proper guidance and preparation for your court date, a PFA charge can disrupt your life entirely. Typically filed by individuals in close relationships with the defendant, PFAs serve as legal warnings to cease all contact with the filer. To address domestic abuse cases in Erie County, Pennsylvania courts have implemented PFA orders to deter household violence and protect alleged victims.

At Logue Law Group, we have outlined the important details about the types of PFA orders and the potential consequences they bring.

Kinds of Protection from Abuse Orders

Emergency Protection Act

The Emergency Protection Act is issued in urgent situations and remains valid only until midnight of the same day it is issued. A district judge on-call handles the issuance of this type of PFA order, based on the immediate perceived threat posed by the accused. If the judge determines that the victim is at significant risk of physical or emotional harm from the alleged abuser, the emergency PFA may be granted without requiring evidence or testimony from the accused.

If you have been served with an emergency PFA, it is crucial to seek advice from an experienced Erie DUI attorney as soon as possible. Attorney Sean Logue, with Logue Law Group, has extensive experience handling such cases and can equip you with the necessary legal support to protect your rights.

Ex Parte Temporary Protection Act

The Ex Parte Temporary Protection Act is a type of PFA order initiated by the alleged victim through the court system. Its purpose is to secure longer-lasting protection. To support their request, the filer needs to present substantial credible evidence (ex parte) to the judge. Seeking legal assistance from a trusted Erie criminal lawyer can make a significant difference in such cases.

If the evidence of abuse presented is shaky or insufficient, the court may choose not to impose severe penalties. However, if the judge sides with the victim, an ex parte temporary protection order will be granted against the defendant. Professional legal representation is crucial to help you build your case during this process.

Final Protection Act

The Final Protection Act is the most comprehensive type of PFA, offering a conclusive legal resolution that can last for up to three years. Appeals are possible but require substantial legal expertise. Typically, this order is issued when the court rules in favor of the victim after careful examination of all evidence.

Facing a Final Protection Act requires understanding your rights as well as the potential ramifications. Contesting this type of PFA successfully calls for a skilled Erie DUI attorney who thoroughly understands the legal complexities involved.

Consequences of PFA Charges

When a PFA order is issued against you, it imposes strict conditions in order to secure the alleged victim’s safety. Some of the common consequences include:

• No Contact or Harassment: You are prohibited from harming, stalking, or harassing the victim or any minor children involved.
• Separation Orders: You are forbidden from living in the same home as the alleged victim.
• Housing Provisions: The alleged victim will receive suitable housing arrangements, especially if they were a live-in partner or spouse.
• Custody Rights: The victim may be awarded immediate custody of any children involved, nullifying your immediate parental custody rights.

The enforcement of these restrictions can lead to significant personal and emotional challenges. Therefore, it is vital to approach these cases with professional representation.

What Should You Do If a PFA Case Is Filed Against You?

Facing a PFA case can be overwhelming and stressful. However, prioritizing the right steps early on can make all the difference.

First and foremost, consult a professional with expertise in handling PFA cases. Attorney Sean Logue from Logue Law Group has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in cases similar to yours. His team’s in-depth understanding of Erie County’s legal framework allows them to craft tailored strategies to protect your rights.

Don’t delay. Contact Logue Law Group at 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Sean Logue. Legal assistance can help you make informed decisions and ensure the best possible outcome for your situation.

Keywords used across the piece:

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• PFA consequences