PFA: Protection From Abuse Attorneys in Allison Park, Wexford, and Beaver, Pennsylvania

A Protection From Abuse Order (PFA) is a court order issued by a judge that provides protective relief to individuals who are experiencing abuse. Here are the key points about PFAs:

1. Purpose: A PFA aims to protect victims of domestic violence from further harm by restricting the abuser’s actions.

2. Duration: The order can be in effect for up to three years.

3. Eligibility:

• Individuals who are 18 years of age or older can seek a PFA.

• Teens and children accompanied by a parent, adult household member, or guardian ad litem can also request a PFA.

4. Restrictions:

• A PFA can make it illegal for the abuser to contact the victim or their children.

• It may also provide assistance with filing the PFA, counseling, legal support, medical services, financial aid, or safety planning through domestic violence programs.

5. Confidentiality: All services related to PFAs are confidential.

6. Additional Orders:

• Sexual Violence Protection Order (SVPO): Similar to a PFA, an SVPO protects victims of sexual violence from further abuse, even if no criminal charges have been filed against the perpetrator. It is available to victims at continued risk of harm.

• Protection From Intimidation Order (PFI): Appropriate for cases of harassment and stalking where there is no intimate or household relationship between the victim and the perpetrator. PFIs are filed on behalf of minor victims by an adult (parent, guardian, or adult household member) .

If you need more information or assistance regarding filing or defending against PFAs, consider contacting us. We can guide you through your options and provide support during this challenging time. Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you.