In Pennsylvania, there are many different ways that a person can be abused. Some of the most common abuses in this state involve a person being attacked by a family member, a spouse, or an intimate partner. Abuses may also take place in the workplace by someone who is a supervisor or coworker. How do you think you can protect yourself from any kind of abuse? That is when a PFA order can come for your rescue.
A PFA order or protection from abuse order is a type of restraining order which protects victims from their abusers. These types of orders can be obtained through the courts after a hearing. This hearing may include evidence of ongoing violence, such as pictures, medical records, or police reports. Sometimes these protective orders are also given to children who are living with an abusive family member. Protection from abuse orders also include instructions for the abuser and victim, such as prohibiting contact between them and instructions on where they can live and work.
How to Get Legal Protection from Domestic Abuse?
Every year, 1 in 4 women are victims of domestic violence, and one in seven men. Pennsylvania offers protection to those who have been abused or threatened by their spouse or significant other. You can file for a PFA order. This court order will keep the perpetrator away from you for anywhere from 180 days to 3 years. The process of filing for a PFA order is as simple as filling out an application and paying a small fee.
Getting a PFA is the first step to legally getting protected. The PFA comes in different sections, which you can find out about by contacting your local police department or speaking with an attorney who specializes in family law. A PFA will help protect you and your family from abuse by guaranteeing that the abuser cannot come into contact with you or harass you by phone, mail, email, social media, text message, or any other electronic form of communication.
Domestic violence is a growing problem in today’s society. Protecting oneself isn’t as easy as it seems, but it is possible. PFA orders are an under-utilized way to provide protection for victims of domestic abuse. For those who are unfamiliar with the process, PFA’s are legal documents that order the abuser not to contact the victim, come within 100 feet of their property, and post threats online.
