What to Do When Charged with a Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order in Allegheny County

Facing a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order in Allegheny County can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. A PFA is a civil order intended to protect individuals from abuse, but the consequences of being served with one can impact your personal life, career, and reputation. Understanding what a PFA entails and taking the right steps to protect yourself are critical.

At Frank Walker Law, we have extensive experience helping individuals navigate PFA cases. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been charged with a PFA in Allegheny County.

What Is a PFA?

In Pennsylvania, a PFA is a court order designed to protect someone from abuse, which can include physical harm, threats, harassment, or stalking. PFAs are typically filed by family members, household members, or intimate partners. While a PFA is a civil order, violating it can lead to criminal charges.

There are three types of PFAs:

Emergency PFA: Granted by a judge outside of regular court hours. This order lasts until the next business day.
Temporary PFA: Issued by a judge if they believe the petitioner is in immediate danger. This order typically lasts until a final PFA hearing.
Final PFA: Can last up to three years and is issued after a court hearing where both parties present their cases.

Consequences of a PFA

Being served with a PFA can lead to significant consequences, including:

Removal from your home if you live with the petitioner.
Loss of custody or visitation rights with your children.
Prohibition from contacting or approaching the petitioner.
Restrictions on firearm ownership.
Damage to your reputation and personal relationships.

Steps to Take If Charged with a PFA

Remain Calm and Comply with the Order: Read the PFA carefully and follow all the restrictions outlined in the order. Violating a PFA, even unintentionally, can result in criminal charges.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Immediately: A PFA is a serious legal matter that requires immediate attention. An attorney can help you understand the charges, gather evidence, and prepare your defense.
Gather Evidence: Collect any documentation, messages, or witnesses that can support your side of the story. Evidence can play a crucial role in disproving the allegations against you.
Prepare for the Final Hearing: The final PFA hearing is your opportunity to present your case. Your attorney will help you build a strong defense, cross-examine the petitioner, and present evidence to refute the allegations.
Avoid Contact with the Petitioner: Even if the petitioner reaches out to you, do not respond. Any communication could be considered a violation of the PFA.

Defending Against a PFA

There are several defenses your attorney may use to challenge the PFA:

Lack of Evidence: The petitioner must provide evidence to support their claims. If the evidence is insufficient or unsubstantiated, the PFA may be dismissed.
False Allegations: If the PFA is based on false accusations, your attorney can present evidence to disprove the claims.
Procedural Errors: If the PFA was not filed or served correctly, this could be grounds for dismissal.

How Frank Walker Law Can Help

At Frank Walker Law, we understand the serious implications of a PFA on your life. Our team will:

Thoroughly review your case to identify weaknesses in the petitioner’s claims.
Develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Advocate for you during the final PFA hearing to ensure your side of the story is heard.

Take Action Today

If you’ve been served with a PFA in Allegheny County, it’s essential to act quickly and strategically to protect your rights. With the right legal representation, you can challenge the allegations and work toward the best possible outcome.

Contact Frank Walker Law today for a confidential consultation. We’ll guide you through every step of the process and fight to protect your rights and your future.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.