If there's a protection from abuse (PFA) order issued against you, chances are you're worried about what happens next – especially if you and the plaintiff have any pets in common. Can you still see your pets while a PFA is in place, and what happens if you're concerned about an animal's welfare? PA criminal law doesn't address this issue directly but let us consider the possibilities.

Pennsylvania PFA Orders

A PFA order protects victims of abuse from further harm at the hands of their alleged abuser. The PFA prevents an alleged abuser from performing certain actions, such as:

• Contacting the victim
• Entering their own residence
• Seeing their children
• Accessing personal items

A PFA can be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances.

Violating a temporary or final PFA order can have significant consequences. LLF Law Firm can ensure you fully understand the terms of any PFA granted against you so you don't accidentally violate the order.

PFA Orders and Pets

While many states specifically address pets in their PFAs, Pennsylvania doesn't take this approach. Instead, under PA law, pets are considered personal property, meaning they are treated the same as your other assets.

From a practical perspective, here's what this means.

• A PFA can prevent you from accessing your own personal belongings, including work equipment and clothes because you might be unable to enter your own residence.
• You might be prohibited from contacting your partner, which means you can't contact them to arrange pet care or access.

If pets are considered personal property, a PFA could make it extremely challenging for you to access your cherished pets. However, don't be disheartened – you should still consult an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss your options.

PFAs and Animal Welfare

Every case is unique. However, PA criminal defense attorneys with LLF Law Firm can advise how you might try to appeal a PFA, or at least challenge its terms, to potentially facilitate access to your personal property – including pets.

On the other hand, if you're concerned that the plaintiff may neglect or otherwise mistreat the pets in your absence, it may be possible to challenge their possession of the animals. LLF Law Firm will evaluate your case and explain what options are available if the pets belong to you, or if there's a real concern for a pet's welfare.

How the LLF Law Firm Can Help

Having a PFA issued against you is stressful enough without worrying about what's happening to your beloved pets. If you're dealing with a PFA and you're worried about your pet, tell the LLF Law Firm. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at LLF Law Firm are, committed to upholding your rights – contact them now at 888.535.3686 or leave them a message online to learn how they can help.