Protection from Abuse (PFA) Orders
In Pennsylvania, a PFA order from a court gives protective “relief” for a victim (and sometimes their children) for a period of up to three years (for final orders). A person can file for a PFA order from the court for themselves, or on behalf of their minor children. A PFA describes various types of protections for the victim. For example, a PFA order can make it illegal for the abuser to contact, harass and abuse the victim and the victim’s children, it may order the abuser to return personal property. An abusers violation of a PFA may result in criminal charges.
A victim of abuse may file for a PFA order against an intimate partner or a family member, such as:
- Spouses or ex-spouses
- Domestic partners
- Same-sex partners
- Parents
- Children
- Persons related by blood or marriage (including brothers/sisters)
- Current or former sexual or intimate partners (including dating relationships).
Pennsylvania’s PFA Act does not protect victims who experience abuse by a stranger, or a roommate with whom the victim is not intimately involved.
Frequently Asked Questions about PFA Orders
Sexual Violence Protection Orders (SVPO)
Adults and minors can petition for a Sexual Violence Protection Order. For example, a SVPO could be granted for a victim who is sexually assaulted by a coworker, and who has no other relationship with the coworker – is not now or never was a family relation, spouse, dating partner, or member of the same household. A judge can grant an SVPO for up to 3 years.
Protection from Intimidation (PFI) Orders
The Protection From Intimidation Order was created to protect minors when the offender is age 18 or older. For example, a PFI could be granted for a child whose sports coach or an adult friend of the family is stalking or harassing him or her. A judge can grant a PFI for up to 3 years.