How to File a PFA
A protection from abuse (PFA) document is more commonly referred to as a restraining order or protective order. Anyone can apply for this legal protection if she feels threatened by someone who has been violent to her or who has made threats to her. Once you have successfully obtained a PFA against someone, that person is prohibited from approaching you. PFAs are available in every state. though the details differ according to your state of residence.
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Instructions
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Visit a courthouse in your state of residence and ask a clerk which office to visit to begin the process of obtaining a PFA.
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Fill out the necessary forms given to you by an administrator in charge of filing PFA documents. The forms vary by jurisdiction but typically require you to provide information about the person against whom you're filing, list the reasons why you're filing the PFA and list any other individuals, such as children, you want to include in the PFA. Upon filling out these forms, the clerk will provide you with a court date to finalize the document.
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Attend the court appearance on the given day to swear to a judge that the information you have provided in the PFA forms is truthful.
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Arrange for someone to serve the PFA to the person against whom you have filed the document. Because a potentially volatile situation could occur if you served the papers yourself, ask one or more friends to do so or request that a court-appointed officer serve the papers.
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Tips & Warnings
When you visit a courthouse in your municipality, the clerk can outline the exact requirements for obtaining a PFA in your jurisdiction.
References
- Workplace Violence News: Protection From Abuse Orders (PFAs): Why a Simple Piece of Paper Isn’t Enough
- Attorney General of Texas: Protective Orders
- Attorney General of Texas: Protective Orders
- Connecticut Network for Legal Aid: How to Ask For a Restraining Order
- City of Indianapolis: Protective Orders
