Married or single women in relationships that are plagued by domestic violence or abuse can obtain a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order from a judge or family court.

PFAs establish legal protection, authorizing law enforcement officers to intercede on behalf of women or children in danger to prevent abuser harm. The court can order an abuser to stay away from a woman and her children at home, at work, or at school.

In granting PFAs, judges can simultaneously give woman child custody, financial or child support and home or auto property rights.

PFA violations are crimes. Courts can order abusers to stop violent mistreatment, threats, harassment, phone calls, e-mails, or property destruction. Unfortunately, a PFA is not a personal safety guarantee. Some abusers violate them. Woman who suspect risk should call the police immediately, escape a residence, and document violations.

Consult Attorney Holly Gayle Gershon for more information.