PROTECTION FROM ABUSE

The Protection from Abuse Act is a civil remedy intended to provide immediate protection from domestic violence. A person can petition the court for an order if there is abuse or a reasonable fear of serious bodily injury between family or household members, sexual or intimate partners or persons who share biological parenthood. A protection from abuse order, commonly known as a PFA can have significant collateral consequences. A petitioner can request the defendant be removed from the home, prohibit the defendant from exercising custody, or prevent any contact with the petitioner. A defendant will be required to relinquish all firearms to the Sheriff’s department.

A hearing will be scheduled within ten days of filing the petition. This process is quick and does not afford much time to subpoena witnesses and gather evidence. You will want to speak with an attorney immediately. With our experience in family law and criminal law, we are prepared to navigate the collateral consequences of a Protection from Abuse Order.