Pennsylvania lawmakers recently convened at the state Capitol to advocate for House Bill 1210, a bipartisan initiative designed to amend Pennsylvania's Protection from Abuse Act that would further protect victims of domestic violence by safeguarding victims' pets.

The bill seeks to grant judges the authority to prevent abusers from acquiring or harming victims' companion animals. The bill's originators note that abusers often threaten to mistreat pets to torment the victim or prevent them from leaving.

If your pets have been threatened by an intimate partner, or you've been accused of making such threats, the Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm can help. Send us a message online or call us today at 888-535-3686.

Importance of Pets to Domestic Violence Survivors

For many domestic abuse survivors, pets play a crucial part. When a survivor feels forced to relinquish their pet to escape violence, they lose emotional support. Protecting pets empowers survivors to make decisions that prioritize their well-being.

Many domestic violence victims hesitate to leave out of fear for their pets' safety. House Bill 1210 supporters note that it addresses this critical barrier. The bill allows judges to include companion animals in Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders so that a court can mandate the abuser to relinquish custody of the pet.

If enacted, Pennsylvania will join 38 states and the District of Columbia in recognizing the importance of including pets in protection order laws.

Protection From Abuse Orders in Pennsylvania

The state of Pennsylvania takes domestic violence seriously. The law recognizes the trauma victims and their families experience, as well as the seriousness of charges leveled against the accused. Anyone claiming to be a victim can get legal protection from the alleged abuser before the matter settles with a hearing.

Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders in Pennsylvania can be granted to someone who alleges domestic violence from a family or household member, an intimate partner, or someone with whom they have a child. Alternatively, an accusation of domestic violence can affect everything from the accused person's reputation to their employment and mental well-being.

Consulting Domestic Violence Lawyers to Safeguard Pets

In Pennsylvania, domestic violence or abuse refers to any of the following aimed at certain household members:

• Bodily injury or harm, battery
• Assault, fear of bodily injury or harm, or direct threats
• Harassment and stalking
• Sexual or physical abuse
• Incest and rape

If passed, House Bill 1210 will add a level of protection for pets in domestic violence situations. The LLF Law Firm Family Law Team is skilled at obtaining PFAs to include pet safeguards and guiding those who face PFAs.

The LLF Law Firm Will Help You with Domestic Violence Issues

Domestic violence accusations that involve pets have long-lasting consequences. If you seek a PFA or face one that is filed against you, the skilled Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm can help with your domestic violence issues. Contact us today online or by calling 888-535-3686 to find out how.