Practice Areas
Domestic
Violence
(Protection from Abuse, Child Abuse, Spousal Abuse)
The Protection From Abuse Act in Pennsylvania has been amended so that one doesn't have to wait to be abused to get Court Protection. If a spouse or live-in threatens the other so that the other spouse fears for his/her physical safety due to threats of harm, one can seek Court intervention. Of course, if a person living in the home physically harms another, including a child, one can immediately get a Temporary PFA Order and the Order is lodged with the local and state police. A person can be ordered to stay away physically, by phone,and by email from the household and any place where the other person may be. A full hearing must take place with the accused having the right to defend himself, within 10 days of the Temporary Order. A final Order will remain in effect for a period not to exceed 18 months. Most Court personnel can help with filing the Original Complaint if the abuse or threats take place in " off hours " like nights or weekends. However, one should contact a lawyer for the full hearing on the merits.
Domestic Violence FAQs
Domestic Violence Articles
You may also want to visit our Family Law FAQ and Publications pages for additional information.