What is a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order?
A PFA order from a court gives protective "relief" for a victim (and sometimes children) for up to three years. A person can file for a PFA order from the court for themselves or on behalf of their children who are under age eighteen. A PFA order describes certain things the abuser must do or is forbidden to do in regard to a victim, and can include many kinds of protection. For example, a PFA order can make it illegal for the abuser to contact, harass and abuse the victim and the victim's children. The PFA order can order the abuser to give back keys, papers, toys, clothes and other items. If the abuser does not follow the order, there can be criminal charges.

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1. What is a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order?
2. How long does it take to file a petition for a PFA?
3. When is the Court available for the filing of petitions for PFAs?
4. What if I can't get to the Court during those times or show up too late to file?
5. Who Can Obtain a PFA Order?
6. How Do I file a petition for a PFA?
7. When is the hearing?
8. Do I really need an attorney for a PFA hearing?
9. What Can a PFA Order Do?
10. How Much Does a PFA Order Cost?
11. Once I leave the courthouse what do I do with the PFA?
12. What if an Abuser Violates the PFA Order?
13. Are PFA and Protection Orders Valid Across State Lines?
14. How can my local Domestic Violence Center help?