Domestic Violence Lawyers & PFA Attorneys

In cases where a person needs immediate protection and the courts are not open, the person can call 911 and be put in contact with the on-duty Magistrate who has the power to issue a temporary PFA.  These types of PFA are only to be sought after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays or anytime over the weekend. These PFAs are only effective until the Court reopens and the person must then file for an ex-parte PFA once the courts reopen.

An “ex parte” order is issued by the Court when a person seeking a PFA appears in Court and seeks relief from abuse. The Judge will hear only the information provided by the person seeking the PFA and the person whom the PFA is against will have no opportunity to dispute this information. If the Judge believes there MAY be enough evidence to warrant a PFA he or she will sign a temporary Order prohibiting the alleged abuser from making any contact with the alleged victim. The sheriffs department will serve the PFA defendant with the PFA Order and may also confiscate any firearm from the defendant. The sheriffs may also temporarily evict the defendant from the plaintiff’s residence. An initial ex parte PFA is temporary in nature and the Court must schedule a full hearing shortly after issuing it. Because the defendant does not have a full and fair hearing, these PFAa may be expunged.

After an ex-parte PFA has been filed, the PFA Court will schedule a final PFA hearing where both sides will have an opportunity to be heard. A final PFA can last up to three (3) years and can have substantial consequences for the defendant. It is therefore highly advisable to retain on attorney for a final PFA hearing. After both sides have had a chance to present evidence, the Court will grant or deny a final Protection from Abuse Order.

Understanding the profound implications of a Final Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is crucial. In Easton, Pennsylvania, our seasoned PFA defense attorneys are well-versed in addressing the multifaceted consequences that accompany such an order. When a judge issues a Final PFA after a hearing, it includes a “finding of abuse,” a determination that can significantly influence various aspects of one’s life.

This finding of abuse is particularly consequential in custody battles, potentially swaying decisions in custody cases. Additionally, it can lead to adverse effects on immigration status and may result in the loss of firearm ownership rights. These repercussions underscore the importance of expert legal guidance from a knowledgeable PFA lawyer, particularly in Easton, Bethlehem, and Allentown.

Beyond these direct consequences, the PFA Act empowers the judge to enact far-reaching measures, such as evicting an individual from their home for up to three years, issuing child custody orders, and mandating financial support payments. Moreover, the issuance of a Final PFA can escalate to contempt charges, possibly leading to incarceration.

At Madsen Law Offices, our dedicated Easton PFA attorneys specialize in mitigating these collateral effects, even in scenarios where a Final PFA order is ultimately granted. Our team, including Allentown and Bethlehem PFA lawyers, is committed to providing robust defense strategies and comprehensive legal support to minimize the impact of a Final PFA on your life.

Whether you’re facing the complexities of a PFA case in Easton, Bethlehem, or Allentown, our experienced domestic violence law office is equipped to navigate the challenging terrain of PFA laws in Pennsylvania. Contact us for dedicated assistance in safeguarding your rights and mitigating the consequences of a Final PFA.

At Madsen Law Offices in Easton, Pennsylvania, our proficient team of PFA and domestic violence attorneys excel in both prosecuting and defending cases related to Contempt of PFA Orders, commonly known as PFA Contempts. It is essential to recognize that non-compliance with a PFA Order is a criminal offense, carrying penalties of up to six months of incarceration and significant fines.

Our skilled Easton PFA attorneys possess comprehensive expertise in all facets of criminal defense, making them exceptionally prepared to defend clients against accusations of PFA contempts. This extensive experience in criminal defense is a cornerstone of our practice, ensuring that our clients receive robust representation.

Additionally, our legal team’s background includes experience as prosecutors. This unique perspective equips our attorneys with a deep understanding of the prosecution side of PFA contempts, enabling them to anticipate and effectively counter the strategies employed by opposing counsel.

Whether you are facing charges for violating a PFA order or need legal assistance in prosecuting a case of PFA contempt in Easton, Bethlehem, or Allentown, our dedicated PFA lawyers are here to provide experienced, strategic representation. Our deep understanding of both sides of PFA contempt cases positions us uniquely to advocate effectively for our clients in these complex legal matters.

Contact Madsen Law Offices in Easton for expert guidance and robust representation in PFA contempt cases, ensuring your rights are protected in these crucial legal proceedings.