Protection from Abuse

Protection From Abuse Orders (PFA’S)

PFA’s are a civil remedy designed to give protection to individuals who have been placed in reasonable fear of imminent serious bodily injury by; family or household members, sexual or intimate partners who persons who share biological parenthood.

PFA’s can have significant collateral consequences beyond restraining the respondent from contacting the Petitioner. PFA’s give the Court the power to, among other things; remove the respondent from home; enter an Order for custody; and confiscate the firearms of the respondent.

Though PFA’s are civil, violating a PFA is a criminal matter. If found guilty of contempt of a PFA Order, the Court can Order fines up to $1,000.00, and up to six months in jail. Violation of a temporary PFA that is pending final hearing carries the same potential punishment of violating a final Order.

Experienced counsel should be retained whether you are in need of a PFA, or have had a PFA petition filed against you.

Areas of Focus:

Criminal Law

  • Theft Offenses
  • Drug Offenses
  • DUI
  • Homicide
  • Assaults
  • Harassment
  • General Impairment
  • Penalties

Family Law

  • Divorce
  • Custody
  • Support
  • Alimony

Has a family member been arrested?

For their legal protection they should always talk to an attorney before speaking to law enforcement.

Are you trying to gain custody of your children?

Learn how to protect your family and your rights as a parent in a custody agreement.