Abuse survivors in Montgomery County, PA, just got an extra helping hand: the Hope Card. This card condenses vital information from a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order into a small, credit card-sized format, making it easier for domestic violence survivors to carry and present to law enforcement. It also includes critical resources for survivors, such as contact information for local support services.

PFA orders, also called restraining orders, are a vital means of protecting victims of domestic violence abuse. The Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm has helped numerous families with domestic violence issues, and we're here to help you, too. Call our legal team at 888-535-3686 or reach out to us online.

The Hope Card Program

The Hope Card Program was introduced to Montgomery County's Upper Dublin Township Board in August by Noah Marlier, the county's Prothonotary (chief clerk of court). Marlier says his goal in creating the program was to simplify the process of obtaining Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders. He pointed out that survivors of abuse face many challenges in navigating the PFA process, including making multiple trips to the courthouse, often with children in two, which can be a daunting and stressful experience for all.

Marlier streamlined the PFA forms and made the packet available online. Digital access allows victims to complete the forms remotely, reducing their time in court or at police stations. While they still must bring certain documents to court, the online process reduces the wait time by as much as two hours. This online initiative is the second of its kind in Pennsylvania, while the Hope Cards are new to the state. Montgomery County began to circulate the Hope Cards in February, along with each PFA order issued.

Obtaining PFA Orders

Individuals outside of Montgomery County and Allegheny County must petition for a temporary PFA order in person at their local family court or police station. The forms require the petitioner to detail the type and instances of abuse. If a judge determines that abuse is probable, they will issue a temporary order. Once the order is signed, the petitioner is immediately protected, and the accused must comply with its restrictions.

The temporary PFA typically forbids include the alleged abuser from abusing, threatening, harassing, or contacting the victim. It also bars them from entering the victim's home, which means that if the alleged abuser lives with the victim, they must immediately find somewhere else to stay from the moment the order is served. It may also prohibit the respondent from having child custody.

The temporary PFA remains in effect for approximately ten days when the final hearing will occur. During this hearing, both the petitioner and respondent present their testimonies and any supporting evidence. The petitioner is responsible for proving that the respondent was abusive. If the judge is persuaded that protection is necessary, they will issue a final PFA, which can last up to three years but is renewable through another hearing.

Hire Skilled Pennsylvania Family Attorneys

PFA orders have long-lasting consequences for the entire family. If you seek a PFA or one has been filed against you, contact the experienced lawyers of the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team today. Call us at 888.535.3686 today or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We're ready to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.