Tigue Law | Trust. Integrity. Passion.

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Tigue Law | Trust. Integrity. Passion.

Empathetic. Professional. Detail Oriented.

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  2. Family Law
    3.  — Protection From Abuse (PFA)

A Law Firm Offering Uncompromising Advocacy In Matters Involving Domestic Violence Allegations

If you have been the victim of abuse, have had a Protective Order filed against you or have been charged with violating a Protective Order, retain reliable experienced counsel as soon as possible. My name is Stephanie L. Tigue, founder of Tigue Law. I am highly experienced in the laws related to protection from abuse in Pennsylvania. I am a former prosecutor in the domestic violence unit of the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s office (where I prosecuted hundreds of PFA violations), and I currently practice both criminal defense and family law.

Representing clients means giving them the chance to discuss the details of their cases and have their voices heard, along with giving them the confidence to move forward. When you hire my firm, you will work directly with me, and I am available to answer your questions and provide counsel that reflects my years of experience, in-depth knowledge and determination to find a lasting solution. I will work hard to help you win your case.

The Basics Of Protective Orders In Pennsylvania

Abuse comes in many forms: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse, intimidation and coercion/threats. Protective orders provide a means for victims of abuse to obtain legal protection from their abusers. There are three types of protective orders:

  • Protection from abuse (PFA)
  • Protection from intimidation (PFI)
  • Sexual violence protective orders (SVPO)

These orders can be sought by anyone who has been involved in an intimate relationship with or is biologically or legally related to their abuser, and who is now suffering from domestic violence.

In July 2015, the “Protection of Victims of Sexual Violence or Intimidation Act” was enacted to provide victims of sexual violence or intimidation a civil remedy that requires the abuser to stay away from the victim regardless of where the victim seeks criminal prosecution. “No contact” orders can include restraining a defendant from entering a plaintiff’s residence, place of employment, business or school, as well as prohibiting indirect contact through third parties. Final orders may remain in effect for up to three years.

Assistance With Protective Orders, Restraining Orders And Defense Against False Allegations

I can help you take immediate action in cases of:
  • Emergency orders: An emergency order is available to victims of abuse who need protection on weekends or holidays when the courts are closed. It may be granted by the on-call magisterial district judge if they believe an individual or child to be in immediate danger, and expires on the next business day, providing protection until a victim can pursue an ex parte temporary PFA.
  • Ex parte temporary PFAs: “Ex parte” indicates that these PFAs are provided to victims of abuse without their abusers present in court. Orders are provided on the basis of the victim’s application and are designed to provide protection until a final PFA can be obtained through a full court hearing.
  • Final PFAs: A final PFA may be granted after a full court hearing takes place in which both victims and alleged abusers can provide evidence and testify before a judge. If granted, a final PFA may last up to three years and can be extended under certain circumstances.

The safety, security and rights of my clients are always of utmost importance. While most accusations of domestic violence are legitimate, there are cases in which someone makes exaggerated or completely false allegations against a current or former partner. Often, this is to gain an advantage in divorce or child custody proceedings. Regardless of whether you are seeking protection or need to defend against false allegations, I will work tirelessly to ensure that your side of the story is heard.

Don’t Wait To Seek Legal Help – Contact My Firm Today

In the direst situations, an experienced and tenacious lawyer can make a difference for you and your loved ones. Do not hesitate to contact me and discuss the issues that matter most during a free initial consultation. You can reach out online or call my office in Scranton at 570-908-5759.