PFA Violations in Pennsylvania

When dealing with domestic abuse cases in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to understand that no specific laws solely address this issue. Instead, domestic abuse cases fall under other hate crimes or criminal charges. If you receive a PFA notice, it’s essential to take it seriously. You might wonder about the implications and how it will affect your life. Given the complexity of PFA orders, defendants often unknowingly violate them. At Logue Law Group, we aim to provide accurate and comprehensive information regarding PFA orders and the consequences of non-compliance.

What is a PFA Order?

A PFA (Protection From Abuse) Order is a court-sanctioned protection order designed to safeguard individuals from domestic abuse, whether physical or mental. Domestic relationships extend beyond marriages; individuals in live-in partnerships can also seek court intervention to issue a PFA Order.

There are generally two types of PFA orders:

Emergency PFA

• Filed in urgent situations where the alleged victim claims to be subjected to abuse by their partner.
• Valid until midnight, with the court subsequently determining the next steps.

Ex-parte PFA

• These have a longer duration and are issued when immediate protection is necessary without the presence of the accused party.

Regardless of the type of PFA order issued, several key considerations must be taken into account while the case is being handled by the court. Any act of contempt can bring severe consequences, making it crucial to retain the services of an experienced Greensburg DUI lawyer to navigate the legal complexities.

What Does a PFA Order Contain?

Typically, a PFA Order includes various provisions that the alleged accused must adhere to in order to avoid penalties. These provisions can be complex and challenging for the average person to comprehend and follow. In such instances, a seasoned Greensburg DUI lawyer can provide the necessary guidance.

Common restrictions found in a PFA Order may include:

• No contact with the plaintiff or any minor children involved.
• Relinquishing all parental rights of minor children to the plaintiff.
• Prohibition from entering or residing in the common cohabitation space.
• Financial support for the plaintiff and any minor children, among other conditions.

What Happens When a PFA Order Gets Violated?

Violating a PFA Order is considered a criminal offense in Pennsylvania. The consequences for such a violation are severe, with the state police imposing significant penalties on the guilty party. In some cases, arrest may also occur. Typically, individuals found guilty of PFA violations face:

• Six months of jail time.
• A $1000 fine.
• An ‘indirect criminal offense charge’ on their records.

To effectively navigate the complexities of PFA orders, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a reputable Greensburg criminal lawyer. Attorney Sean Logue has extensive experience defending such cases in Greensburg and is well-equipped to assist you. By enlisting his help, you can rest assured that your penalties or charges in PFA cases will be minimized. Schedule a free consultation today by contacting him at (844) 748-8384.