Protection From Abuse (PFA)

Your safety comes first. If someone has hurt you, threatened you, or made you fear for your well-being, a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order can provide the legal protection you need.

At Jacobson, Julius & Harshberger (JJH), our PFA lawyers in Harrisburg and York help victims of domestic violence obtain court-ordered protection while treating every case with the sensitivity it deserves.

We also represent individuals who have been wrongly accused, ensuring they receive fair treatment under the law.

What Is a PFA Order?

A PFA order is a civil court order that prohibits an abuser from contacting or coming near you and your children. This protection order can remove the abuser from your home, restrict custody or visitation, require the surrender of firearms, and establish no-contact boundaries.

Pennsylvania law allows you to seek a PFA order against:

Spouses or former spouses: Whether currently married or divorced, you can seek protection.
Current or past intimate partners: Dating relationships and former sexual partners are covered.
Blood relatives or in-laws: Receive protection from parents, siblings, children, and extended family members.
Your child’s other parent: Protection is available regardless of your relationship status.

Emergency temporary orders can be issued immediately, while final orders require a court hearing.

How to Obtain a PFA Order

When you need a PFA order, time is critical. Our PFA attorneys in Harrisburg guide you through filing and represent you at every stage:

Immediate emergency protection: Temporary orders can be issued the same day if you’re facing imminent danger.
Evidence gathering: We help you compile documentation, identify witnesses, and prepare testimony.
Hearing representation: Our domestic violence lawyers present your case and advocate for the strongest protections available.
Long-term enforcement: Final orders last up to three years and carry criminal penalties for violations.

Our team of family law attorneys understands Pennsylvania’s Protection From Abuse Act and will fight to keep you safe.

Defend Against a PFA Order

False or exaggerated allegations can have devastating consequences. If you’ve been served with a PFA, you need skilled representation immediately:

Protect your parental rights: A PFA can restrict or eliminate your ability to see your children and influence custody decisions.
Preserve your reputation: Allegations can affect your employment, professional licenses, and community standing.
Challenge false claims: We thoroughly investigate accusations, gather contradictory evidence, and present a strong defense.
Safeguard firearm rights: A final PFA triggers a federal prohibition on gun ownership.

Our protection-from-abuse lawyers approach every defense case with diligence and determination.

Why Harrisburg and York Families Trust JJH

Choosing a protection order lawyer in PA means finding an advocate who recognizes the emotional weight of these cases. At JJH, we bring decades of experience to every PFA matter.

We serve families throughout Central Pennsylvania with:

Trauma-informed advocacy: We listen without judgment and prioritize your well-being.
Confidential support: We protect your privacy, and you’ll have direct access to your attorney.
Experienced representation: We know the judges, procedures, and strategies that lead to successful outcomes.

Take Action to Protect Yourself Today

If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 first. Then contact JJH for legal support.

Call us at 717-909-5858 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with a Harrisburg PFA attorney.