In Pennsylvania, a PFA (Protection from Abuse) is a no-contact civil restraining order. If you have been served with a PFA, it is vital to understand your rights. Even though it is governed as a civil matter it can have drastic consequences both civilly and criminally. A PFA will also dictate your conduct towards the accusing party until a final hearing.
In PA, a final hearing is scheduled within ten business days of the issuing of a temporary PFA by a judge. Prior to the final hearing a Defendant will be excluded from the residence of the other party, even if it is the Defendant own home. If the parties have children and they are involved or covered by the PFA, a Defendant can be excluded from seeing their own children until the PFA is resolved.
At Phil DiLucente and Associates, we handle PFA matters involving various types of claimed abuse, harassment, threats, and violence allegedly perpetrated by Defendants, both men and women. We also handle PFA’s in which custody and property issues were at issue and where exclusive possession is sought.
We have represented victims and defendants in a PFA issue. At times we defend the Defendant and at other times we have protected and represented the Plaintiff.
When representing Defendants, it is imperative to keep in mind that the Plaintiff will be given the opportunity to utilize a pro bono lawyer and have adequate representation at court, whereas a Defendant in the matter is not provided pro bono counsel . They are not even afforded a public defender if they cannot afford counsel because of the civil nature of a PFA. However, it is imperative that the Defendant keep in mind that there can be criminal consequences and extensive civil consequences if they choose to remain unrepresented. Once a PFA is served upon you, please contact Phil DiLucente and Associates for representation.
Domestic violence is a very serious issue and we do not take it lightly here at Phil DiLucente and Associates, however, there may be instances where allegations are unfounded or not truthful and misused in divorce matters, custody matters, co-habitation matters, or merely current or former intimate partner relationships of all kinds. Regardless of the facts surrounding your PFA, we here at Phil DiLucente and Associates will diligently advocate on your behalf to ensure your liberties and property are protected. If you made an out of character poor choice and are facing dire and extreme consequences due to a small lapse in judgement and/or behavior, we will advocate on your behalf.
Please contact Phil DiLucente and Associates, if you have a PFA filed against you or you think you have one filed upon you soon.
