Pittsburgh and Beaver County Lawyers for PFA

Take a Stand.

You may be facing a "PFA hearing" to determine
whether the temporary PFA against you will become
"permanent." This is a critical time. You need to
stand tough and defend against the claim because a
permanent PFA can have long term consequences as
described below.

What is a PFA?

First of all, the term "PFA" stands for Protection From
Abuse Act. It comes from a statute that allows a
court to enter an order to protect against violence,
threats, and stalking. There has to be a certain
relationship between the plaintiff and defendant in a
PFA action, however. They must be former lovers or
have some familial relationship. Otherwise, the the
case should not be in the family court system (Court
of Common Pleas), rather, it should be a purely
criminal matter handled through the DA's office vie
the magistrate court, only.

Is a PFA a Crime?

The answer is, yes and no. A permanent PFA goes on
your record like a criminal conviction and it is very
serious. It can impact your life for many years to
come. Further, while the PFA is in place, it is a civil
order that can be enforced like a criminal order if you
violate it. You must treat a PFA case like a criminal
matter for all intents and purposes.

Be Prepared For Court.

The hearing on whether your temporary PFA
becomes permanent is key. Your lawyer can tell you
how to prepare for court. The other side will also be
prepared. Neighborhood legal services provides FREE
representation to all supposed "victims" of violence.
As you know, everything you say can be used
against you. The transcript of your testimony in a
PFA hearing can be used to impeach you later on if,
for example, you have a personal injury case that
you bring and you seek legitimate damages for pain
and suffering.

Accept a "Deal"?

Your lawyer can tell you whether any "deal" offered
to you is really a deal. Some supposed deals are no
better than going to court and losing. Many of our
clients come to us too late and want to know if
there is an appeal process once they accept a bad
deal or if they go to court and lose. The answer is,
yes, you can appeal to the superior court, but it is
very difficult, time consuming, and expensive. Some
deals are great opportunties. Others can actually
jeopardize your rights in the future in terms of
custody, child support, and the right to carry
firearms.

Easy Payment.

Our lawyers know PFA law inside and out. Our fees
are reasonable and we accept major credit card
payment. Let us help you with your PFA defense in
Allegheny County (Pittsburgh), Beaver County, or
Washington County. Make sure you have a great
defense strategy to keep a PFA off your record (or
minimize it) and to protect your right to your
residence and/or firearms.

Call Today.

412.400.5476