A news article in the Philadelphia Tribune, written by staff writer Sherry Stone, spotlighted the issue of increasing elder abuse in the form of financial fraud in Pennsylvania based on reports from the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). There were several forms of financial abuse, such as caregivers who clock in for work at a senior's home but do not show up or who falsely report working with multiple clients at the same time. Scammers have also committed “deed theft,” where a deed to a senior's home was placed in the name of a dead person. It was recommended that a prolonged stay at the hospital could also lead to credit card abuse by scammers, so a power of attorney with a trusted person should be set up.

Unfortunately, elder abuse affects 1 in 10 seniors nationwide, and in more than 60% of the cases, the abuser is a family member, making it hard for an elderly victim to leave and seek help. If you or a loved one are a victim of verbal, physical, or financial elder abuse, get help today from the experienced elder law attorneys at the Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm. They are aware of all the issues involving the abuse of seniors in Pennsylvania and can answer all your questions about obtaining a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order. Call the experienced PFA Family Law Team attorneys at 888.535.3686 or contact us.

What Is a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order?

A Protection from Abuse or PFA is a court-ordered decree that can protect an elder from physical, financial, and mental harm caused by another family member or a household member. In the case of emotional abuse, you would have to show evidence of significant emotional or psychological abuse. You can get a PFA against your children, spouse, or other blood relations who are in a domestic relationship with you.

What Are the Types of PFA Orders in Pennsylvania?

• Emergency PFA: An Emergency PFA can be granted on an emergency basis if the elderly victim can show they are in immediate physical danger. These orders can be granted even if the court is not open. An Emergency PFA is short-term relief for a few days, but it can allow the victim, known as the petitioner, to file for a temporary PFA order during normal court hours.
• Temporary PFA: This order protects the elder for up to ten days until a final PFA hearing can be held in court.
• Final PFA: After a final PFA hearing, the judge can grant a permanent order called a final PFA order if the evidence at the hearing shows that it is more likely than not that the accused defendant is guilty of elder abuse.

If you are facing an elder abuse issue in Pennsylvania, contact the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team offices today at 888.535.3686 or contact us. You deserve our professional help and support in obtaining a PFA order.