How to Obtain & Enforce Protective Orders in Domestic Violence Situations
Oct. 25, 2025
Domestic violence is a serious issue impacting millions globally. It can occur in any relationship, regardless of gender, race, or social status. If you've experienced domestic violence, one of the primary ways you can protect yourself and prevent further harm is by obtaining and enforcing a protective order.
At Iwanyshyn & Associates, we understand the challenges that can arise during domestic violence situations. Prioritizing your safety and the safety of your loved ones is your top priority, and establishing a protective order can be a vital step in this process. Whether you’re seeking to obtain a protective order or need assistance enforcing one, our experienced attorneys are here to provide guidance and support at every step.
What is a Protective Order?
A protective order, also known as a restraining order, is a legal document issued by the court to help safeguard individuals who are facing threats, abuse, or harassment. The goal of a protective order is to prevent further harm by restricting an abuser's contact with the victim. It may also require the abuser to stay away from certain places, such as the victim's home or workplace.
Protective orders aim to provide immediate protection for victims of domestic violence. They can cover various forms of abuse, including physical violence, verbal threats, emotional manipulation, and stalking. Protective orders serve as a legal mechanism to hold abusers accountable and provide victims with a sense of security.
Types of Protective Orders in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the Protection from Abuse Act (PFAA) governs protective orders. Depending on your situation, you may qualify to file for one of three types: emergency protective orders, temporary protection from abuse orders, or final protection from abuse orders.
Emergency Protective Order (EPO): An EPO provides immediate protection for domestic violence victims who are in imminent danger. This type of order is typically issued outside of regular court hours by a magistrate judge or local court official. It is a short-term solution designed to prioritize your safety until a formal hearing can be held.
Temporary Protection from Abuse Order (Temporary PFA): A temporary PFA is the next step in obtaining protection. Once you file a petition for a protective order, the court may issue a temporary PFA to shield you from harm until a more formal hearing occurs. These orders typically last up to 10 days or until the date of the hearing.
Final Protection from Abuse Order (Final PFA): A final PFA is granted following a court hearing where both parties can present evidence and testimony. If approved, it can remain in effect for up to three years and may include protective measures such as prohibiting the abuser from contacting you, granting temporary child custody, or requiring the abuser to leave a shared residence.
How to Obtain a Protective Order
If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence in Pennsylvania, you are not alone. Protective orders offer court-ordered security and peace of mind. To obtain a protective order, you will need to take the following steps. An experienced family law attorney can provide compassionate assistance during this phase.
File a petition: File a petition with the court. This is typically done at your local courthouse or family court. You will need to provide detailed information about the abuse, including evidence such as photographs, medical records, emails, text messages, or witness statements, if available. It’s important to be as specific as possible to help the court understand the urgency of your situation.
Attend the initial hearing: Once your petition has been filed, the court will typically hold an initial hearing to determine whether a temporary PFA should be issued. During this hearing, the judge will review your petition and decide whether the situation warrants immediate action. If approved, the temporary PFA will take effect immediately, providing you with an added layer of protection.
Prepare for the final hearing: After the temporary PFA is issued, the court will schedule a final hearing, usually within 10 days. This hearing is your opportunity to provide further evidence, bring witnesses, and testify about the abuse you’ve endured. It’s important to have legal representation during this process to make sure your rights and interests are adequately represented.
Attend the final hearing: At the final hearing, both you and the accused individual will have the chance to present your cases. The judge will evaluate the evidence and testimonies before deciding whether to issue a final PFA. If granted, the final PFA will outline the specific terms of protection and the duration of the order's effectiveness.
If the abuser violates the terms of the PFA, they may face significant legal consequences such as substantial fines or imprisonment. An experienced domestic violence attorney can help you file your claim, look out for your safety, and enforce the court order if necessary.
How to Enforce a Protective Order
Unfortunately, there are situations where abusers may violate the terms of a protective order. When this happens, it’s essential to take immediate legal action to preserve your safety and uphold the integrity of the order. The key actions you should take include the following.
Report violations to law enforcement: If the abuser does not comply with the protective order, contact local law enforcement as soon as possible. Violating a protective order is a criminal offense in Pennsylvania, and the offender may face arrest, fines, or other legal consequences. Document any incidents of noncompliance, including dates, times, and descriptions of what occurred. This serves as evidence if further legal action is necessary.
Seek legal assistance: If a violation occurs, an attorney can assist you in filing a petition for contempt of court, enabling the court to address the violation and impose penalties on the abuser. They can also guide you through the legal process to make sure your protective order is effectively enforced.
Strengthen your safety measures: While a protective order is a vital tool, it’s important to take additional precautions to enhance your safety. This may include changing your phone number, alerting trusted friends or family members to your situation, and exploring options like security systems or self-defense training.
Contact an Experienced Domestic Violence Attorney Today
If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence situation, don’t wait to seek help. At Iwanyshyn & Associates, we recognize how emotional and overwhelming domestic violence cases can be. Our compassionate and experienced attorneys are committed to helping you seek safety and justice. From filing for a protective order to enforcing it in court, we provide tailored guidance at every step.
We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and tailor our approach to meet your needs. Together, we strive to empower you to make well-informed decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones. Located in Allison Park, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout the state, including Conway, Butler County, and the surrounding areas. Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance to us. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.