Pennsylvania has three different civil protection order options that offer victims relief from further harm from their perpetrator:
- Protection From Abuse (PFA)- A special restraining order given by the court. In Pennsylvania, a victim of abuse may file for a PFA order against an intimate partner or a family member. A PFA does not protect victims who experience abuse by a stranger, or a roommate with whom the victim is not intimately involved.
- Sexual Violence Protection (SVPO) - A court order that helps protect victims of sexual violence from further harm or intimidation, even if no criminal charges have been filed. Unlike a PFA, an SVPO does not require a close relationship between the victim and the abuser.
- Protection From Intimidation (PFI) - A court order that prohibits adult offenders from intimidating (harassing and stalking) minor victims who are not in a relationship with the offender.
Civil protection orders can be filed whether or not the incident has been reported to the police. If you are considering filing a civil protection order, find additional information on our pages below on how to file.
The Cumberland County Prothonotary’s Office does not provide legal advice. Please consult your attorney with any legal questions.