PFA Violations
In Pennsylvania, the police can arrest you without a warrant for violation of a Protection From Abuse ("PFA") Order if they have probable cause. However, that probable cause does not have to consist of anything more than an allegation by the alleged victim. As a result, a spiteful former lover or spouse can have you arrested and thrown in jail for something that may have never happened or can't be proven.
If you are convicted of violating a PFA, not only will the conviction permanently stain your criminal record, but you could spend the next six months in jail and incur a hefty fine. In the face of such significant penalties, you can't afford to go into court unprepared and unprotected. If you have been charged with violating a PFA, call or text (412) 589-9422 to speak to a skilled Pittsburgh PFA Violation Lawyer at Bishop Law immediately. We will fight to protect your rights and are dedicated to providing you with the best possible defense.
Pittsburgh PFA Violation Attorney.
The Process
If you are arrested for violating a PFA in Allegheny County, you will first be arraigned by a magistrate on the charge of Indirect Criminal Contempt ("ICC") and bond and/or bond conditions will be set. Your first hearing, referred to as a "Contempt Hearing," will be held on a Wednesday morning in Room 3030 of the Allegheny County Family Courthouse. At that hearing, a District Attorney will review the ICC Complaint and decide whether to prosecute the case. If the case is chosen to be prosecuted by the District Attorney's Office, it will then be scheduled for a hearing before a Court of Common Pleas Judge in the Criminal Division. However, even if the DA's office chooses not to prosecute, the alleged victim can still proceed to a hearing on the matter before a Court of Common Pleas Judge in the Family Division.
Protect Yourself. Call Us Today.
In today's climate regarding allegations of domestic violence, PFA violations are taken very seriously and can result in harsh penalties for the accused. Accordingly, if you are charged with violating a PFA, you need an experienced Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Attorney in your corner. At Bishop Law, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of representation and getting them the best possible results. Protect yourself. Call us today.
Charged with a PFA Violation? Contact Bishop Law today.
Call or text (412) 589-9422 or fill out the contact form below to speak to an experienced Pittsburgh Lawyer immediately. We are available 24/7 and are here to serve you with a strong defense!