Alexis Smith used her platform at the awards ceremony for Miss Kansas on June 8, 2024, to publicly call out domestic violence and courageously mention that her abuser was seated in the audience. The acceptance speech was published by Live Now Fox on July 30, 2024. Ms. Smith later continued her focus on issues of domestic violence in social media posts and interviews, describing her own and her family's experience as victims of domestic violence. Her personal stand was widely praised and supported by reviewers on social media.

Issues regarding domestic violence have been a focus of the national news, and there has been an increased outpouring of support for victims of domestic violence. If you or a loved one has been a victim of domestic violence, contact us at the experienced Family Law Team of the LLF Law Firm or call 888.535.3686 today for professional help with your domestic violence issues.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a term that covers a broad range of violent acts or abuse directed at household members. It includes:

• Stalking and harassment
• Bodily injury or harm
• Assault, threat of harm, or fear of bodily harm
• Physical or sexual abuse
• Rape
• Incest

A household member is anyone in the immediate or extended household, including current or ex-spouses, sexual partners, dating partners, family members, or someone with whom the victim had a child. All abuse or violence by a household member may be actionable by a victim against an abuser under Pennsylvania's Protection From Abuse Act.

Obtaining a Protection From Abuse Order

Domestic violence is a serious charge under Pennsylvania law and is given prompt action by the court system. A domestic violence victim suffers great trauma and fear from the violent threats and actions of an abuser. Anyone can request a Protection From Abuse ( PFA) order from the court system, and there is no charge to file for one in Pennsylvania.

It is possible for a victim to obtain protection from the abuser prior to a formal hearing by the court. This order is signed by the court on a temporary basis to restrain the abuser and protect the victim until a full hearing can be held, usually within ten days. These temporary PFA orders instruct an abuser to immediately stop the abuse or face serious legal consequences from the court system. If a violation of a temporary PFA order does occur, the police can then arrest the abuser, who will then face appropriate punishment from the legal system.

Domestic violence involves real danger to the victim, and it is vital that a vulnerable victim have strong protection for all their rights under the law. The Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm can provide the support and the experienced legal protection that you need during a domestic violence crisis. Get help today and contact us or call 888.535.3686.