During the court case, many plaintiffs complain that they get threats from another party or abuser. These threats can ruin the mental peace of the entire family including the children. According to the Protection from Abuse (PFA) act, it is an order in the family court ordering someone to stop harassing someone in the form of emotional, physical, or any other form. The order may also state to stay away from the victim until the verdict is given on the case. You must click here to know more about this order and the relief it brings to the victim.
Who can file for a PFA?
The petition for protection against abuse is submitted in the court against any person having the following relationship with you:
- Spouse or ex-spouse
- People living together as a couple( having a child or no child)
- Couples living separately but having one or more children
- The person you have dated or are still dating
- Family relations such as parents, children, brother, sister, son, daughter ( Step or in-laws)
- Grandparents or grandchildren
What is abuse under the law?
You might be receiving several threatening calls, emails, or texts from anyone in your family. You might feel that you and your kids’ lives are in danger. Below mentioned are a few situations in which you can file a petition:
- An attempt or caused bodily injuries
- Sexual assault and rape
- Sexually or physically harassing a child
- Stalking
- Interfering with the freedom of movement
- Repeated acts of attempting to harm someone
You should come out and stand for your rights if you have been facing such a situation. You can file a petition without the help of a lawyer. However, it is strongly recommended to hire an attorney because he can expedite things for you and ensure that your rights are protected. Moreover, you don’t have to pay anything to file a petition.
The process of filing a petition
You just need to fill out a form giving all details such as the abuser, your relationship, children, and others. The judge will review the petition in an informal hearing. Depending on his decision, it may be denied or accepted. In case, the judge approves it, the effect will be immediate. Until the case is pending in court, you don’t have to worry because the abuser cannot threaten you anymore.
