Protection From Abuse Update

Victims of domestic violence may now use phone or email to request temporary Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders while Philadelphia courts are closed during the COVID-19 health emergency.

Find the form and instructions here and email to TempPFA@courts.phila.gov on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. You may also call the Domestic Violence Unit at 215-686-6311, ext. 19217, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Ex parte hearings will be held electronically by video or by telephone.

Emergency PFAs are still being processed at the Criminal Justice Center, 1301 Filbert St., on weekdays and on holidays from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. and on weekends from Friday at 4:00 p.m. through Monday at 8:00 a.m.