No one has the right to sexually or physically abuse another person. Unfortunately, these situations do happen more often than many people realize. If you are being abused, you might not want to have the abuser charged with criminal charges or be involved in a criminal case, but you do have the option of receiving protection against that person by getting a Protection From Abuse Order (PFA). A PFA order can protect you from persons who are causing you bodily harm, including cases of domestic abuse or sexual assault.
A Protection From Abuse Order can be sought by a family member, household member, former spouse, intimate partner, someone in a dating relationship or intimate relationship, and can also protect a minor child. These protective orders or restraining orders can be issued even if criminal charges are not filed, and the police department can assist in emergency situations. Requests for protection are made by filing court papers at the court clerk’s office, and courts such as the family court, circuit court, or even the supreme court may issue these orders.
Emergency orders are temporary and must be followed up at the court on the next business day, and a hearing date or court date will be set for a court hearing where both parties will be heard. A notary public may be required to witness signatures on court papers. After reviewing the requests and evidence, the court issues the order. When the judge grants a final order, the PFA order or protective order remains in effect until the order expires.
- Are There Certain Requirements?
- What is Considered Abuse?
- What Steps Are Taken to Receive the PFA?
- When Does the Order Go into Effect?
- What Kind of Protection Is Offered?
- Contact a Colmar Family Law Attorney for a Consultation About Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania Today
Are There Certain Requirements?
If you need to file for a Protection From Abuse Order, you will need to be at least 18 years of age. You can file the order for yourself and for your children if you have any and are worried about their own safety. A PFA can be filed by a family member, household member, former spouse, intimate partner, or someone in a dating relationship, and can also protect a minor child.
In order to get the order, you would need to be related to the person accused of abusing you by marriage or blood. Persons who have been abused by someone in these categories are eligible to file. You can still get the PFA against someone you are not married to or related to if you happen to have children with that person. It is also possible to get protection from someone you were in a relationship with at some point in the past.
What is Considered Abuse?
Abuse is defined as something that can cause harm to another person, even if weapons are not used. Some different types of abuse would include:
- Hitting someone
- Committing an act of rape
- Sexually assaulting a person
- Stalking a person
- Causing a person to fear for their life
- Preventing a person from being able to leave the home or enjoy their freedom
What Steps Are Taken to Receive the PFA?
If you are interested in filing for the Protection From Abuse Order, you are going to need to do so at the Court of Common Pleas Family Division. You should be able to file on your own, but you can also do so with help from an attorney.
When Does the Order Go into Effect?
When a judge feels that you do need to receive protection from the court due to the severity of the situation, he or she can provide you with a temporary order that goes into effect right away, even if the person accused of the abuse is not there. A second hearing will be scheduled and will usually take place within two weeks of when you initially filed for the PFA. Even if the court is closed due to a holiday or weekend, it is still possible to get the protection you need and are requesting. An emergency order is often provided by the Magisterial District Justice. If you are in fear for your life and have nowhere to turn, you should try to seek safety at a shelter for victims of domestic violence.
What Kind of Protection Is Offered?
When filing a petition, you will need to provide details of the events that transpired. A judge will review the petition and may then provide additional orders. These orders could include making sure the abuser gets removed from the household, establishing custody, or ensuring that the abuser only gets supervised visits, requesting that the abuser provide you with support, and ordering the abuser to stop contacting you. These are just a few of the additional orders that a judge can make after reviewing the petition and finding out more about the situation.
When you have been granted a protection order, it goes into effect, and you can receive the protection you are requesting while you are in the state of Pennsylvania. If you plan to move or leave the state to go elsewhere, you will need to bring a copy of the court order with you while you travel to a different location. A temporary order is good for about two weeks. The official order of protection is good for up to three years. It is even possible to get an extension on the PFA if that is something you need to do. Violations of the order can lead to serious consequences, including fines and jail time.
Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania
Victims of domestic violence in Pennsylvania have access to a wide range of resources designed to provide support, protection, and guidance throughout the legal process. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, it’s important to know that help is available and that you do not have to face this situation alone.
Immediate Assistance and Emergency Protection
If you are in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or a police officer right away. Police can help ensure your safety, assist you in leaving a dangerous situation, and help you file for an emergency hearing to obtain a temporary order of protection. Emergency protection orders can be issued quickly, even outside of regular court hours, to address urgent safety concerns.
Legal Protections and Court Orders
Victims can seek a court order, such as a Protection From Abuse Order (PFA), to prevent further harm or contact from the abuser. In cases involving sexual violence, a Sexual Violence Protection Order (SVPO) can be requested to stop intimidation or harassment. These protection orders can include minor children and other household members, ensuring the safety of the entire family. The court may grant temporary orders for immediate protection, followed by a final hearing where the judge decides whether to issue a final order, which can last up to one year or longer if extended.
Support from Domestic Violence Programs
Domestic violence programs across Pennsylvania offer confidential services, including counseling, legal advice, medical assistance, and safety planning. These programs can help victims navigate the court process, complete court forms, and prepare for hearings. Victims can also receive support from victim advocates, who can accompany them to court and provide guidance on their rights and options.
Court Process and Assistance
Protection orders can be filed at your local court clerk’s office, family court, or circuit court. Court staff are available to answer questions, provide information about court forms, and help with filing procedures. If the defendant objects to the protection order, the court will schedule a final hearing to review the evidence and decide whether to grant or deny the order. Police reports, cell phone records, and other documentation can be used as evidence to support your case.
Additional Protections and Considerations
The court may issue orders that grant exclusive use of a residence, require the abuser to surrender firearms or deadly weapons, and prohibit any contact with the protected person. In criminal cases, protective orders may be issued as a condition of bail or sentencing. Former spouses, intimate partners, and other family members or household members can all be subject to a domestic violence order if abuse has occurred.
Ongoing Support and Modifications
Protection orders can be issued for up to one year, and victims can request an extension or modification if safety concerns persist. If you need to make changes to your order, contact the court or a domestic violence program for assistance. Victims can also appeal a court’s decision if necessary.
Where to Get Help
If you need help filing for a restraining order or order of protection, reach out to your local law enforcement agency, court clerk’s office, or a domestic violence program. Notary publics can assist with paperwork, and court staff can guide you through the process. Remember, the goal of a protection order is to stop abusing and harming the victim and to provide a safe environment for you and your children.
No matter your situation, there are resources and people ready to help you take the next steps toward safety and protection. If you have questions or need support, don’t hesitate to seek help from the many organizations and professionals dedicated to assisting victims of domestic violence in Pennsylvania.
Contact a Colmar Family Law Attorney for a Consultation About Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania Today
If you are thinking about filing for , or if you have already started the divorce process and are dealing with another matter such as child custody, child support, or division of assets, you need to speak with a qualified attorney. The Pennsylvania attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford represent clients throughout the state, including Colmar, Lansdale, Newtown and throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. We understand how challenging this time can be for you, which is why we will fight hard to protect your interests, and the interests of your loved ones, throughout the legal process.
Call us at (215) 822-7575 or fill out our confidential contact form to schedule a consultation. We have an office conveniently located at 2605 N. Broad St. Colmar, PA 18915 as well as offices located in Newtown, PA.
Established in 1952 by Irwin S. Rubin, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. boasts over 65 years of experience serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. Renowned for its commitment to ethical representation, the firm has garnered prestigious accolades, including being named the “Best Law Firm” for its outstanding legal defense work by U.S. News & World Report. Their team of seasoned attorneys, recognized as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, brings unparalleled expertise to a wide range of legal matters, ensuring exceptional representation for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
September 16, 2025
