The Pennsylvania Petition for Protection from Abuse (PFA) is a civil court order issued by a judge to protect an individual from physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from a partner, family member, or other person. It can also be used to protect any children in the home from the abuser. It is issued by a court and enforced by local law enforcement. There are two types of PFA's — a Temporary PFA and a Final PFA. A Temporary PFA is issued without notice to the abuser and protects the individual for up to 10 days. A Final PFA is issued after the abuser has had an opportunity to be heard in court and can last up to three years. The PFA can include various forms of protection, such as ordering the abuser to stay away from the home, work, or other places the victim may be, prohibiting the abuser from contacting the victim, and ordering the abuser to pay child support or alimony.