Not everyone is fortunate enough to feel safe with their family. Jillian Howard of Noble, OK, is one such person.

She estimates that she was about seven or eight years old the first time her father beat her. Now, she is 30 years old and has a son of her own, but she still lives in fear of her father's violence. It compelled her to file a victim protection order (VPO) against him.

Are you a victim of abuse from a family member? A protective order could help you as well. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888.535.3686 or submit a contact form to find out how the team can help.

A Father Beating His Daughter

Jillian Howard was on her bed in the home that she shared with her father when he dragged her off by her foot and started kicking her in the living room. Her young son was present for the beating, which was recorded in a video that Howard sent to the Noble Police Department.

Howard's father was arrested for his crime on August 6, 2024, and faces misdemeanor charges. After his release from prison, Howard obtained an emergency VPO.

Having moved out and taken steps to protect herself and her son, Howard wants to encourage other victims of domestic violence to have hope and protect themselves. It's her contribution to Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which takes place every October.

How Does a Protection Order Help?

Although Jillian Howard lives in Oklahoma, the principles of protection orders are basically the same in every state, including Pennsylvania. Similar to restraining orders, they demand the abuser to cease their harmful behavior, such as stalking, threatening, harassing, or assaulting. The abuser is also usually required to refrain from contacting or being in the same place as the victim. They likely have to surrender their weapons, too. If the abuser owes money for spousal or child support, or if they hurt the victim badly enough to require medical attention, they may have to compensate the victim as well.

Should the abuser violate the protection order, they will be arrested and punished according to the nature of the violation. In Pennsylvania, they could face a maximum of six months of jail time and/or fines up to $1,000. This makes it an effective method for combating domestic violence.

How Can the LLF Law Firm Assist with Your Protection Order?

The LLF Law Firm is Family Law Team is committed to helping abuse victims in Pennsylvania stay safe and get fresh starts. If you need an emergency or permanent protection from abuse order, they're prepared to advocate for you, even outside regular courthouse hours. Even victims who don't live in Pennsylvania may still qualify for protection orders if their abusers frequently travel to or have family in the state.

Do You Need a Protection from Abuse Order in Pennsylvania?

No one should have to endure abuse or domestic violence. Let the LLF Law Firm help you obtain peace of mind no matter where you are in Pennsylvania. The first step is to contact the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team offices at 888.535.3686 or through this contact form to set up a consultation.