The consequences of being bound by the terms of a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order can be life-altering. You may have to relocate where you live, the route you take to work, how you pick up your children for your parenting time, and a host of other daily realities that you once likely took for granted. Thankfully, in the event that the terms of a PFA are so broad and/or burdensome that they're unreasonable, you can ask the court to modify them.

Seeking Relief from Overly-Burdensome PFA Terms

It may be tempting to speak directly with the individual who asked the court for your PFA if you hope to modify its terms. Perhaps you were once married to this individual and you reached a divorce agreement by negotiating with each other out of court. Perhaps you have solid reasons to believe they'll be reasonable if you ask them to narrow the focus of the PFA's terms. This is not a good idea. Contacting this individual – even if you have the best and purest of intentions – could be a direct violation of your PFA. Additionally, no compromise you broker will be enforceable anyway.

However, you are empowered to ask the court to modify the terms of a proposed PFA or a PFA that has already been ordered. Essentially, you'll need to outline which terms are so broad and/or burdensome that they're unreasonable. Upon receiving your request, the court will determine whether or not to grant your proposed modification.

Conversely, if you believe an existing PFA order is no longer necessary, you can ask the court to cancel it. As with a modification request, though, only the court can order an enforceable cancellation of a PFA.

Personalized Assistance Concerning PFA Modifications Is Available

You'll need to avoid violating the terms of your existing PFA. Until the terms of an order have been formally modified, they carry the weight of the law. Violating terms that have yet to be modified can lead to a host of consequences, including possible incarceration. Instead of assuming that risk, reach out to the knowledgeable Criminal Defense Law Team at the LLF Law Firm so we can help you to lawfully navigate whatever PFA challenges are currently too burdensome.

Once our Criminal Law Team and the LLF Law Firm have assisted you with your immediate concerns, we can help you petition the court for a reasonable modification of your PFA's terms. To get started, connect with our team today by calling 888-535-3686 or by contacting us online. We understand how to safeguard your interests while keeping you from compromising your rights. We look forward to speaking with you.