PFA Attorneys in York, PA
Victims of domestic abuse or violence may choose to pursue legal remedies against their alleged abuser. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is a court-issued ruling that prohibits the abuser from taking specific actions against the victim, alleviating the threat.
What Constitutes Abuse in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania defines abuse as physical or sexual abuse, incest and false imprisonment. Pennsylvania also considers abuse as situations where the plaintiff (victim) is placed in circumstances where they have a “reasonable fear of immediate serious bodily injury” — that means verbal threats and intimidation can also count as abuse. If you’re not sure if you qualify for a PFA, contact a PFA lawyer to help you review your options.
About the PFA Process in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, domestic abuse victims can file a PFA under the Protection From Abuse Act (Title 23, Section 6101 et. seq.). The alleged abuser (defendant) does not need to be present during the filing process. An evidentiary hearing, where the defendant and victim have the opportunity to present evidence supporting their cases, must occur within 10 days of the filing. The defendant can also enter a defense at the hearing.
A defendant can also choose to enter into a consent order. If this happens, there’s no hearing and no admission of guilt. Instead, the defendant agrees to have limited or no contact with the plaintiff for a specific term.
Consequences of a PFA
After a PFA, the defendant’s child custody, firearms rights and other privileges could be affected. They may even be limited in where they can go and where they can live. If they violate a PFA, they’re in indirect criminal contempt and may be brought before a judge. Some could even face incarceration.
How Can a PFA Attorney Help?
If you have had a PFA filed against you in York, Pennsylvania, the experienced PFA lawyers at MPL Law Firm can come to your defense. Your attorney can provide valuable legal guidance in all the crucial aspects of your case:
- Explaining the process and your rights: Your MPL Law attorney will help you understand the hearing process and your legal rights.
- Gathering evidence: A lawyer will locate and collect text messages, emails, witness accounts and other documents and statements supporting your case.
- Representing you at the hearing: The PFA attorney will defend you at the hearing where a judge will ultimately decide whether to issue a PFA order.
- Negotiating a resolution: Your attorney may be able to negotiate a settlement with the plaintiff’s lawyer to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
- Filing an appeal: A PFA attorney can help you file an appeal if the judge’s ruling goes against you.
Why Trust Us?
MPL Law is different from many other law firms because we take the time to listen to our clients. We recognize combating a PFA order is stressful, and we will do everything we can to support you during this challenging period. We believe in being upfront with our clients — we set realistic expectations and work hard to achieve the most favorable outcome for every situation.
We also endeavor to treat you with the dignity and respect you deserve instead of approaching you as just another case file.
Contact a PFA Attorney
If you have a PFA filed against you in York, PA, the knowledgeable PFA lawyers at MPL Law Firm are ready to protect your legal rights. Take the next step and contact us to schedule a consultation and case evaluation today.