Lancaster Protection from Abuse Attorney
Protection from abuse orders (PFAs) are civil domestic violence protection orders that are specific to the State of Pennsylvania and can be issued by either a magisterial district court judge or a family court judge. The process generally begins with a hearing that takes place after a judge issues a temporary PFA. If you are the subject of a PFA, it’s important to understand that – while the matter is civil rather than criminal – you can, nevertheless, face considerable social consequences, which makes it in your best interest to have an experienced Lancaster protection from abuse attorney in your corner.
The Steps Forward
If someone is seeking a PFA against you, you can expect the process to involve these steps:
- The person seeking the order will file an emergency protection from abuse order with the family court or with the magisterial district court if it is after business hours or on the weekend.
- The PFA judge will either grant the temporary PFA order against you or deny and dismiss it.
- A final PFA hearing will be scheduled within ten days.
PFAs Are Distinct from Restraining Orders
Many people confuse PFAs and restraining orders, and understanding the differences between them is worth understanding. Judges issue protection from abuse orders as a means of protecting filers from abuse that is perpetrated by someone close to them, such as:
- A family member
- A current or former spouse
- Someone with whom they share a child
- A current or former romantic partner
- A current of former domestic partner
A restraining order, on the other hand, can be issued against anyone who poses a threat of abuse or violence against the filer. To obtain a restraining order, there doesn’t have to be a close relationship of any kind between the filer and the person named – in fact, the person could be a perfect stranger, such as a stalker.
If You’ve Been Named in a PFA
Being falsely accused of abuse in a PFA can lead to serious consequences that go beyond damaging your reputation – both personally and professionally. Additional concerns include:
- Your ability to maintain your current job or to find a new one
- Your child custody arrangements – if you’re facing a child custody battle
- The division of your marital property in a divorce
If you’ve been named in a PFA, fiercely defending yourself is key, and a seasoned protection from abuse attorney is standing by to help.
It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced Lancaster Protection from Abuse Attorney
The emotional turmoil that is common to divorce and child custody cases can lead to unexpected legal actions, and if you find yourself on the wrong end of a PFA, the time to take action is immediately. Stephen Grosh at the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh is a trusted protection from abuse attorney who has an imposing track record for successfully defending clients like you from false PFA claims – in the protection of their rights and reputations – and he’s here for you, too. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 717-435-8830 today.
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