When abuse, threats, or violence enter a family law matter, immediate legal action is essential. At Kinney Law, we take domestic violence and safety seriously. Whether you are seeking protection or defending against false or exaggerated allegations, our firm provides strong, confidential, and experienced representation in Protection From Abuse (PFA) proceedings.

With over 30 years of courtroom experience, Tim Kinney is prepared to act quickly and decisively to protect your rights and your future in these emotionally and legally complex cases.

What Is a PFA Order?

A Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order is a court-issued restraining order available to victims of domestic violence under the Pennsylvania Protection From Abuse Act (23 Pa.C.S. § 6101 et seq.). A PFA may prohibit the abuser from:

• Having any contact with the victim
• Entering the victim’s home, school, or workplace
• Possessing firearms or weapons
• Contacting children or family members

PFA orders are civil—not criminal—but a violation of a PFA is a criminal offense and may result in arrest, incarceration, and criminal penalties.

Who Can File for a PFA?

PFA orders are available to individuals experiencing abuse or threats from someone with whom they share a qualifying relationship, including:

• Spouses or ex-spouses
• Current or former intimate partners
• Family members related by blood or marriage
• Individuals who share biological children
• Current or former household members

If your relationship does not qualify under the PFA statute, Kinney Law can help you explore other protective legal remedies which can offer protection.

Emergency and Temporary Orders

Victims can request an emergency PFA outside of normal court hours through a local Magisterial District Judge. A temporary PFA may be issued ex parte (without the other party present) and typically remains in effect until the final hearing, which is usually scheduled within 10 days.

Tim Kinney can assist you with filing the initial petition, preparing for the final hearing, and ensuring all legal protections are in place as soon as possible.

Defending Against PFA Allegations

If you have been falsely accused or served with a temporary PFA, you have the right to defend yourself at the final hearing. These proceedings can impact your parental rights, custody, housing, employment, and criminal record.  They are incredibly serious allegations, and Kinney Law treats them as such.

Kinney Law offers skilled, assertive defense to challenge the credibility of false allegations and ensure your rights are preserved.  Often these cases involve competing versions of the facts, without supporting evidence, and Tim Kinney’s decades of litigation and cross-examination skills offer his clients many advantages in these scenarios.

The Kinney Law Advantage in PFA Cases

• Trial-Tested Representation: With decades of courtroom experience, Tim Kinney is prepared to handle evidentiary hearings, cross-examinations, and negotiations with clarity and confidence.
• Availability: We act quickly to file or respond to emergency and temporary PFAs, ensuring no deadlines or rights are missed
• Integrated Custody and Divorce Knowledge: PFA cases often overlap with custody or divorce matters, and can even be misused to gain an advantage in custody or divorce litigation. Our firm manages these complexities with skill and discretion.
• Private and Secure Communication: Your safety and confidentiality are our priority. Our Client Portal allows for secure, convenient communication throughout your case.

Your Safety—and Your Rights—Matter

Whether you are in need of protection or fighting to preserve your name and parental rights, Kinney Law is here to help. We bring strength, discretion, and urgency to every PFA matter.  If you feel unsafe in any way, it is critical that you take immediate steps to protect yourself, and we can help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the protection—or defense—you deserve.