Criminal Contempt in PFA Orders Pennsylvania

Dealing with accusations of domestic violence can turn one’s life into a complex and stressful ordeal. The judgment from others and societal pressure can be intense, often causing additional harm. While Pennsylvania does not have distinct laws specifically for domestic abuse, such cases are categorized under other criminal statutes.

Understanding the Protection from Abuse Act

To address domestic violence, Pennsylvania enacted the Protection from Abuse (PFA) Act. If you or someone you know is dealing with the threat of a PFA order or has been served one, it is vital to contact a reputable Kittanning criminal lawyer without delay.

PFA cases are typically addressed in civil courts; however, any breach or act of violence related to a PFA order is treated as a criminal offense. Due to the broad interpretation of “domestic abuse,” obtaining legal advice is crucial to understanding the best course of action and avoiding violations. At Logue Law Group, we’ve compiled essential details about PFA orders and their criminal consequences.

What Does a PFA Order Mean?

PFA orders are either temporary or final court orders issued by civil courts to shield individuals who claim to be victims of domestic abuse. If a PFA order has been served to you by your partner or spouse, understanding its key provisions is crucial.

Key Provisions of a PFA Order:

• Restraining Order: You must avoid any contact with the alleged victim.
• Communication Restriction: This encompasses all forms of communication, such as social media, and asking friends or relatives to contact the other party.
• Harassment and Stalking: Harassing or stalking the plaintiff is strictly prohibited.
• Child Custody: If minor children are involved, immediate custodial rights usually go to the plaintiff.
• Social Media Silence: Refrain from making any comments or posts related to the case on social media platforms, including blogs, vlogs, and live events.

Considering that a PFA order imposes restrictions on the rights of the accused, it is important to carefully evaluate your options and seek advice from an experienced Kittanning DUI lawyer to prevent any violations.

PFA Order Violation and ‘Indirect Criminal Offenses’

Receiving a PFA order means you must tread carefully. Even minor actions could be deemed ‘criminal contempt’ in Pennsylvania. Domestic abuse is a serious offense, and courts impose stringent penalties for such violations. Notably, domestic abuse is categorized as a ‘hate crime’ and ‘criminal activity’, which carry significant penalties and punishments.

Contact Us

Violating the order will lead to an ‘indirect criminal offense’ charge, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. If you find yourself in this predicament, you need the expertise of Sean Logue, a leading Kittanning criminal lawyer. With extensive experience and a proven track record, he will skillfully manage your PFA order challenges. Call 844.PITT.DUI now for a free consultation with Logue Law Group