Restraining Orders in Domestic Violence Cases

Protection from Abuse Orders

In Pennsylvania, restraining orders are referred to as Protection from Abuse (PFA) Orders . The purpose is to protect the individual who requests the order for protection from the unwanted or dangerous behavior of another individual. This can include such actions as stalking, harassment, or abuse. You should contact a Philadelphia domestic violence lawyer immediately if you are in need of a Protection from Abuse Order or defense from a complaint filed against you.

The party requesting a Protection from Abuse Order files a petition with the court. If the judge determines there is an immediate danger present, an order may be entered either for protection only or for eviction, the latter requiring a full hearing before going into effect. The other party does not need to be present for approval of this initial order. An attorney can help you with this process or guide you in defending yourself if you receive notification of such an order.

Philadelphia Domestic Violence Attorney

When a full hearing occurs, which will occur 7-10 days from the date of the order, the court will hear testimony and review the evidence. Based on this information, it may either dismiss the order or issue a final protection order. If the event that it concerns was non-violent, the judge may grant a 60-90 day continuance to allow a chance for the situation to resolve. If the threat appears likely to continue, a long-term, three-year order of protection may be approved by the court.

Whichever side of this conflict you are on, the lawyers at The Benari Law Group can help you pursue the desired outcome. Attorney Benari, in addition to graduating with honors in three years, has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Rhetoric and Public Argument. Attorney Pallen has engaged in oral argument before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The skill of our legal team in presenting compelling cases can make a significant difference to your case.

If you require a restraining order or have had one issued against you, contact a Philadelphia domestic violence attorneyfor help.