So You Need a Philly Phantom Eviction Notice? How to Get a Stay-Away Order in the City of Brotherly Love (with Less Brotherly Stalking)
Let's face it, Philadelphia. We love our cheesesteaks, our Rocky montages, and, well, maybe not the Rocky steps after a big Eagles win. But one thing we don't love is unwanted attention, especially the creepy kind. If someone's gone from "hallway bump into your heart" to "hiding in your bushes with a boombox" territory, it's time for a stay-away order, also known as a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order.
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| How To Get A Stay Away Order In Philadelphia |
Don't Be a Sitting Duck: Gather Your Evidence (Like a Private Eye...But Less Shady)
Here's the thing: a judge isn't going to take your word for it if your ex keeps serenading you with kazoo renditions of your high school fight song. You need proof! This could be:
- Text messages or voicemails that range from "missing you" to "thinking about getting a restraining order against pigeons...just in case."
- Witness statements from your super who, let's be honest, probably has a story or two about strange package deliveries.
- Police reports if things have escalated to the point of needing to involve the authorities (because seriously, stalking is a crime).
Pro Tip: Document everything! Dates, times, creepy voicemails – keep a record so you can show the judge exactly why you need some peace and quiet (and maybe a restraining order against kazoos).
Head to Court: File Your Petition (But Leave the Judge's Robe Alone)
Here's the good news: Philadelphia makes filing a PFA order pretty straightforward. You can head to the Family Court at 1501 Arch St. and visit the Domestic Violence Intake Unit. They'll walk you through the process and help you fill out the petition.
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
Here's the not-so-fun news: There might be a wait. Be prepared to channel your inner Rocky (minus the steroids) and persevere. Bring a book, your phone charger, and maybe some snacks (because let's face it, cheesesteaks aren't exactly court-appropriate).
The Hearing: Your Time to Shine (Like a Disco Ball, But Less Confusing)
The judge will review your petition and evidence. This is your chance to tell your story. Be clear, concise, and stick to the facts. Don't get bogged down in emotional details (although, let's be real, a little outrage at your stalker's kazoo serenade is understandable).
Bonus points: If you can, bring an advocate from a local domestic violence shelter. They can offer support and guidance throughout the process.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Restraining Order? More Like Restraining Your Fears! (But Still Be Careful)
If the judge grants the PFA order, congrats! You've got a legal document that says your unwanted guest needs to stay far, far away. Make sure you get a copy (or two) and keep them with you at all times. Here's the most important part: If your stalker violates the order, call the police immediately. A PFA order is only as good as it's enforced.
FAQ: Stay-Away Order Edition
How to know if I qualify for a PFA order?
In Pennsylvania, a PFA order can be filed if the abuser is a current or former spouse/partner, someone you share a child with, a blood relative, or someone you live with/used to live with. They must have committed one or more acts of abuse, like threats, harassment, or stalking.
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
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How much does it cost to file a PFA order?
There is no fee to file a PFA order in Philadelphia.
How long does a PFA order last?
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
A temporary PFA order can last up to 10 days while the court schedules a hearing. A final PFA order can last up to three years.
What if the abuser violates the PFA order?
If the abuser violates the order, call the police immediately. Violating a PFA order is a crime.
I need more help!
There are many resources available to help you through the PFA order process. Here are a few:
- Philadelphia Legal Assistance: https://philalegal.org/
- Women's Law Project: https://www.womenslawproject.org/domestic-sexual-violence/
- Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://www.pcadv.org/
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