Allentown Domestic Violence Attorney
Being a victim of domestic violence is a devastating reality for some women, children, and men living in Allentown, Pennsylvania. For those who are suffering from domestic violence, understanding one’s rights, options, and how to move forward while still saying safe can feel impossible. At the law office of van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, we know how desperate you may feel if you are a victim of domestic violence, and we want to help you get the protection you need. If it is safe to do so, please reach out to our Allentown domestic violence attorneys immediately for counsel you can trust.
Domestic Violence Protection from Abuse Orders
If you are the victim of domestic violence, you can seek a protection from abuse order, which is a type of restraining order. A protection from abuse order (PFA) can provide the following types of protections:
- Order the abuser to not harass, stalk, threaten, or use physical force against you;
- Order the abuser to leave a shared home;
- Provide you with temporary custody over any shared children;
- Order the abuser to pay temporary support to you;
- Order the abuser to forfeit any weapons and firearms; and
- Order the abuser to pay you relief, including compensation for medical bills, psychiatric services, legal fees, and more.
Defining Domestic Abuse in Allentown
In order to seek a protection from abuse order, you will need to prove that you are a victim of domestic violence. Abuse refers to acts between family or household members involving bodily injury, rape, sexual assault, involuntary deviant sexual intercourse, incest, indecent assault, false imprisonment, physical or sexual abuse of a child, and causing fear of immediate bodily injury.
How to Get a Protection from Abuse Order in PA
In order to get a PFA order in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to file a petition with the court that explains why you are seeking protection and the type of abuse you’ve been subjected to. The judge will then review your petition, and may grant you a temporary order without a hearing. Even if the judge grants a temporary order without a hearing, you will still need to attend a hearing at a later date in order to get a final PFA order, which can last for a period of up to three years. Note that even if courts are closed, you can still file for an emergency protective order.
Helping You Throughout the Process
Requesting a protective order can be extremely intimidating, especially if you are afraid of the repercussions of doing so. At the law office of van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, we can provide you with the representation and support you need, and will assist you in filing your petition and presenting your case during a hearing. We can also aid you in taking steps after you have a protective order, including filing for a divorce and seeking custody of your children if relevant.
To learn more about the protections available to you and how our lawyers can help, please call our Allenton domestic violence lawyers today for a consultation. We are here to help you.
What Clients Say About Us
Caring Deeply About Our Clients and Their Families-
“Micheal van der Veen was my attorney and he did an outstanding job on my case. He really listens and cares about your situation no matter how big or small and also makes you feel right at home when your in his office.”
- Matt Swisher -
“The van der Veen team treats you as family. We win together. You are not just a client, but a family member when you choose this office.”
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“It has been a real pleasure to work with Mr. van der Veen and his team. They really care not only about the case and the legal issues, but mainly about the person. The legal work is excellent and the result in our case was simply outstanding!”
- Nadia Hristova
Throughout the years, our firm and our individual attorneys have been recognized in both local and national media for our extensive legal knowledge, experience, and record of success. Our attorneys frequently appear in the media to provide insight and information on various legal matters, including high-profile cases.
Choosing the Right Firm Can Make All the Difference
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Unrivaled Record of SuccessWe have won tens of millions of dollars for injured victims, and have achieved countless "not guilty" verdicts for clients faced with criminal charges.
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No Challenge too BigOur firm has handled some of the biggest cases in country, including representing the President of the United States.
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Personalized Representation
We understand that every case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach based on the facts of the case and the needs of our client.
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Uncompromising PassionOur competitive nature is one of our strongest qualities. You can be confident that no other firm will outwork our team.
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Holistic ApproachNot only do we want to excel legally for the client, but we also want to make sure we are strengthening their mind, body and spirt.
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Supporting the CommunityOur team engages in many community events and regularly donates time and resources to many charitable organizations in Philadelphia.
Home to Philadelphia’s most accomplished attorneys, van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin pairs diverse practice experience with a passion-driven, comprehensive law practice—all for the client’s benefit.