When a person has a PFA filed against them, the situation can become confusing and difficult. PFA orders are intrusive on a person's quality of life and can last for a long period of time if they are finalized in court. In addition, these orders can have many effects on a person across several areas of the law.
PFA Order FAQs
If you are facing a PFA order, or domestic violence charges, you may have some questions in mind.
I've Been Notified I Have a PFA Against Me. What's Next?
PFA orders are typically handled in two stages. First, a plaintiff will file a temporary "emergency" or "ex parte" PFA order against a defendant. After a short time, a defendant will then have to defend themselves at a hearing for a final PFA order. The final PFA order will be decided upon by a judge after a hearing involving evidence and argument from both sides.
How Can a PFA Filed Against Me Affect my Career?
A PFA can have drastic effects on a person's life, but especially for those who are following certain career paths. Many times, for an individual who works in close proximity to the plaintiff, may encounter difficulty, but for individual who must have state certification for their career path, their situation can be much more dire. The filing of a PFA order against them may constitute professional misconduct, which can cost them their job. These types of professions can include:
- Law Enforcement
- Doctors
- Nurses
Can I Be Evicted if a PFA is Filed Against Me?
PFA orders can potentially affect where a person lives, even if their name is on the lease. This can be difficult for any individual. There are many different aspects of the law at play when a PFA order takes hold over someone's residence, and a strong defense can be helpful.
Does A PFA Order Filed Against Me Constitute Criminal Charges?
While a PFA order is not necessarily a criminal charge against someone, however, violations of a PFA order can lead to criminal charges. A person who violates a PFA order is likely to be charged with criminal contempt, which can lead to fines and jail time.
What Affect Can a PFA Have on my Rights to a Firearm?
When a person owns firearms, they may have their second amendment rights trampled on when they are involved in a domestic violence incident. A PFA order can have terms that forbid a person from owning firearms, which can make their life much more difficult.
Pennsylvania Defense Attorney
When a person has a PFA filed against them, they may face serious consequences. On top of this, many PFA orders are the direct result of domestic violence charges. Violations of a PFA order can place someone in another criminal circumstance, complicating their situation even further. A skilled and experienced defense attorney can not only put up a strong defense against domestic violence claims but can also provide a strong defense against a PFA that is filed against a defendant as well.
If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges, or a PFA order, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
