• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
MacElree Harvey, Ltd.

MacElree Harvey, Ltd.

Initiative in Practice

  • Home
  • Legal Services
        • Banking & Finance Law
        • Business & Corporate Law
        • Criminal Defense
        • Employment Law
        • Estates & Trusts Law
        • Family Law
        • Litigation Law
        • Mediation and Arbitration
        • Personal Injury Law
        • Real Estate & Land Use Law
        • Tax Law
  • Our Team
        • Joseph A. Bellinghieri
        • Patrick J. Boyer
        • Jeffrey P. Burke
        • Robert A. Burke
        • Matthew C. Cooper
        • John C. Cronin
        • Daniel T. Crossland
        • Marie I. Crossley
        • Harry J. DiDonato
        • Jaycie DiNardo
        • Caroline G. Donato
        • Nicholas S. Eisel
        • Sally A. Farrell
        • Brian J. Forgue
        • William J. Gallagher
        • Patrick J. Gallo, Jr.
        • Mary Kay Gaver
        • J. Charles Gerbron, Jr.
        • Leo M. Gibbons
        • Joseph P. Green, Jr.
        • Carolina Heinle
        • Court Heinle
        • Frank W. Hosking III
        • Katherine A. Isard
        • J. Kurtis Kline
        • Peter E. Kratsa
        • Mary E. Lawrence
        • Daniel R. Losco
        • Michael G. Louis
        • Jamison C. MacMain
        • John F. McKenna
        • Matthew M. McKeon
        • Lou Mincarelli
        • Brian L. Nagle
        • Lance J. Nelson
        • Timothy F. Rayne
        • Michael C. Rovito
        • Duke Schneider
        • Andrew R. Silverman
        • Ashley B. Stitzer
        • Coleman O. Thomas
        • Natalie R. Young
        • Pilar Diaz
  • About Us
    • Our History
    • Our Approach
    • Social Responsibility
    • Testimonials
  • Careers
  • News & Updates
    • Articles by Our Attorneys
    • News
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Newsletters
  • Offices
    • Centreville, DE
    • Hockessin, DE
    • Kennett Square, PA
    • West Chester, PA
  • Contact
  • (610) 436-0100

Frank W. Hosking III

When Safety Meets the Law: The Power and Consequences of Protection From Abuse Orders in Pennsylvania 

January 28, 2026 by MacElree Harvey, Ltd. Leave a Comment

Recently, Chester County has seen an uptick in Protection From Abuse filings. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is a civil court order in Pennsylvania designed to protect people from domestic violence, threats, stalking, or harassment by a spouse, partner, family member, household member, or co-parent. While PFAs are civil cases, violating one is a criminal offense and can result in arrest or jail time. Judges can issue temporary orders the same day a petition is filed, with a final hearing usually scheduled within about 10 business days. If granted, a final PFA can last up to three years and may be extended. 

To seek a PFA in Chester County, an individual files a petition detailing the abuse and the protection requested. PFAs can protect multiple parties, including the plaintiff, minor children, and even pets, a recent addition as of January 2025.  

A judge may issue a temporary order that can include no-contact provisions, removal from a shared home, firearm surrender, temporary custody arrangements, and financial support orders. At the final hearing, both parties can testify, present evidence, and call witnesses. The judge then decides whether to issue a final order and what conditions to impose. 

For those seeking protection, documentation is critical—saving messages, photos, witness names, and police reports can strengthen a case. Advocacy organizations can help with safety planning and court accompaniment, and legal assistance.  

For those defending against a PFA, the order must be taken seriously from the moment it is served; even indirect contact can violate the order. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible, as PFAs can affect custody, housing, employment, and firearm rights. Further, legal representation can help the accused understand their rights and the process they will face.  

Ultimately, PFAs are intended to prevent harm and create immediate safety, but they also carry significant legal and personal consequences for both parties. Understanding how the process works in Pennsylvania and Chester County can help individuals make informed decisions during a highly emotional and complex situation.  

If you are considering seeking a Protection From Abuse order, or have been served with one, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. The family law attorneys at MacElree Harvey provide experienced guidance for both petitioners and defendants navigating PFAs in Chester County and throughout Pennsylvania. Contact MacElree Harvey to schedule a confidential consultation at macelree.com/contact-us or (610) 436-0100.

Author: Frank W. Hosking III

Filed Under: Articles by Our Attorneys Tagged With: Frank W. Hosking III

Why I Work at MacElree Harvey Employee Spotlight: Frank W. Hosking III  

July 23, 2025 by MacElree Harvey, Ltd. Leave a Comment

  1. What drew you to MacElree Harvey when you were exploring job opportunities? 

Growing up in West Chester, I always noticed MacElree Harvey’s strong presence in the community – whether through event sponsorships or local involvement. So when the opportunity arose to join such a prestigious firm, it was an easy decision. 

  1. How has your experience at the firm so far compared to your expectations? 

My experience so far has exceeded expectations. Joining MacElree Harvey, I knew I was joining a great firm but every day I am proud to be able to work with such a great group of people. 

  1. What have you enjoyed most about your first few months here? 

I’ve really loved getting to be involved in the community I grew up in – especially since it’s where I plan to raise my own family someday. 

  1. What stood out to you during your onboarding process? 

What stood out to me the most was how genuinely willing everyone is to help. People at the firm truly want to see each other succeed and are always ready to lend a hand. 

  1. How would you describe the firm’s culture based on what you’ve experienced so far? 

During my time here, I’ve really noticed the strong sense of care and collaboration that defines the firm. Everyone is eager to support one another, whether it’s through a quick brainstorming session or stepping in to help whenever and wherever it’s needed. 

  1. Have there been any memorable moments or first impressions that made you feel proud to have joined the firm? 

The first impression that has stuck with me is seeing how dedicated everyone is in their representation of their clients.  

  1. What kind of support or mentorship have you received since joining the team? 

The support and mentorship I’ve received so far has been incredible. Anytime I’ve had a question or needed guidance, someone has always been willing to help. What’s meant a lot, too, is that colleagues have taken the time to check in and see how things are going or if there’s anything more they can do to support me. It really makes a difference. 

  1. What strengths or values have you already noticed in the way MacElree Harvey operates? 

MacElree Harvey truly invests in its people, creating an environment where employees are supported and set up for success. That support ultimately enables attorneys to deliver the highest level of service and representation to their clients. 

  1. What are you most excited to learn or achieve as you continue settling into your role? 

I’m most excited to continue representing individuals and businesses in our community, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals in any way I can. 

  1. Is there anything unique or surprising about the firm that you’ve discovered since joining? 

What’s surprised me most, despite growing up right here in West Chester, is just how deeply connected MacElree Harvey is to the community. Whether it’s through representing local clients or volunteering for local causes, it’s clear the firm genuinely cares about making a positive impact. 

  1. What would you tell someone considering joining MacElree Harvey? 

MacElree Harvey is a truly special place to work, where you’re surrounded by a supportive team that encourages you to grow into the best version of yourself, all while making a meaningful impact in the local community. 

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Frank W. Hosking III

Primary Sidebar

  • Articles by Our Attorneys
  • News
  • Podcasts
  • Videos
  • Newsletters

Footer

(610) 436-0100

LEGAL SERVICES

  • Banking & Finance Law
  • Business & Corporate Law
  • Criminal Defense
  • Employment Law
  • Estates & Trusts Law
  • Family Law
  • Litigation Law
  • Personal Injury Law
  • Real Estate & Land Use Law
  • Tax Law

ABOUT US

  • Our History
  • Our Approach
  • Social Responsibility
  • Testimonials

NEWS & INSIGHTS

  • Articles by Our Attorneys
  • News
  • Podcasts
  • Videos
  • Newsletters

OFFICES

Centreville, DE

5721 Kennett Pike
Wilmington, DE 19807
302-654-4454
Learn More

Hockessin, DE

724 Yorklyn Rd #100
Hockessin, DE 19707
302-239-3700
Learn More

Kennett Square, PA

209 East State Street Road
Kennett Square, PA 19348
610-444-3180
Learn More

West Chester, PA

17 West Miner Street
West Chester, PA 19382
610-436-0100
Learn More

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Staff Only
  • Careers

© 2026 and all rights reserved by MacElree Harvey, Ltd.