In Pennsylvania, Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders are powerful legal tools meant to shield individuals from domestic violence and threats of harm. However, when a PFA is filed with false information, the repercussions can be severe for both the accused and the individual making the claim. At Grace Legal Offices, we are committed to upholding the integrity of the legal system and protecting the rights of all parties, whether you are seeking protection or defending against a false accusation.
What Is a Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order?
A Protection From Abuse order is a civil court order designed to prevent continued abuse by an intimate partner or household member. Under 23 Pa. C.S. § 6101 et seq., individuals experiencing domestic violence may request a temporary or final PFA, which can:
- Prohibit the abuser from contacting or harassing the victim.
- Remove the abuser from a shared residence.
- Provide temporary custody of children.
- Grant other relief necessary for the petitioner’s protection.
The process begins by filing a petition with the Court of Common Pleas in the county where the abuse occurred or where either party resides. A judge may issue a temporary order immediately if there is evidence of immediate danger, followed by a hearing within 10 business days to determine if a final PFA should be granted for up to three years.
The Dangers of Filing a False PFA
While the PFA system is intended to offer immediate relief to victims, filing a false claim, and intentionally making untrue or exaggerated allegations, constitutes a serious misuse of the law. False PFAs not only cause emotional and financial distress to the accused but they also:
- Misuse valuable court and police resources.
- Undermine the legitimacy of actual abuse claims.
- Erode public trust in the justice system.
False claims can result in various legal and personal consequences, including criminal charges such as perjury, false swearing, or unsworn falsification to authorities, all of which are prosecutable under Pennsylvania law.
Legal Penalties and Civil Liability
If a person is found to have knowingly filed a false PFA petition, they may face:
- Criminal charges under Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code.
- Fines or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
- Civil lawsuits for defamation, malicious prosecution, or intentional infliction of emotional distress by the accused party.
These penalties extend beyond the courtroom. A documented history of false accusations may undermine one’s credibility in future custody disputes, divorce proceedings, or protective order requests. In severe cases, it may be used as evidence of bad faith or manipulation in broader family law litigation.
Long-Term Impacts on Credibility
Perhaps the most lasting consequence of filing a false PFA is the damage to personal credibility. A record of dishonesty in legal proceedings can jeopardize one’s standing in:
- Family law cases (custody, divorce, support).
- Employment or professional licensing matters.
- Future court petitions, including legitimate PFAs.
Courts are less likely to be sympathetic in subsequent legal actions when prior misuse of the legal process is documented.
The Ethical Responsibility to Use PFAs Truthfully
The PFA system plays a critical role in protecting individuals at risk of abuse. Misusing this system for personal gain, such as to influence child custody or retaliate in a divorce, is unethical and legally dangerous. Courts emphasize the seriousness of every PFA petition and the importance of truthfulness throughout the process.
At Grace Legal Offices, we remind clients that honesty is not just expected, it is the foundation of justice. Misleading the court not only harms others but also diminishes the resources available for those in real danger.
How Grace Legal Offices Can Help
Whether you are a survivor of domestic abuse seeking immediate protection or someone falsely accused of abuse, navigating PFA matters requires experienced legal counsel. At Grace Legal Offices, our Central Pennsylvania family law attorneys provide:
- Compassionate, confidential guidance through the PFA process.
- Aggressive defense for those wrongfully accused of abuse.
- Strategic representation in related family law matters such as custody, support, and divorce.
We tailor our legal strategies to the unique facts of each case, ensuring that your rights and interests are safeguarded at every step.
Contact Grace Legal Offices Today
Filing a false Protection From Abuse order can have serious legal and personal consequences. If you are involved in a PFA case, whether filing or defending, seek skilled legal representation to ensure your rights are fully protected.
📞 Call Grace Legal Offices at (717) 635-8780 for experienced and trustworthy guidance in your Protection From Abuse matter.
Grace Legal Offices is proud to serve clients across Central Pennsylvania with dedication, discretion, and deep knowledge of Pennsylvania family law. We are here to protect your rights and advocate for fair, honest outcomes.
