DV201: After the PFA, What Happens Next?

A protection order is an important step in protecting survivors—but it is not the end of the process. What happens after an order is issued can be critical to survivor safety, accountability, and effective enforcement. This training provides advocates and attorneys with a practical, process-focused look at what happens after a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is granted. Presenters walk through service and enforcement of PFA orders, including what provisions may be included, recent changes to PFA rules, and what litigants and advocates should understand once an order is issued. The training also addresses weapons relinquishment, probation when an offender is subject to a PFA, and situations in which a litigant is ordered to participate in domestic violence intervention or other treatment. Participants receive an overview of the Family Court compliance calendar, including how a litigant is placed on the calendar, what compliance hearings look like, available data, and how matters can progress to contempt proceedings. Family Court practitioners then provide a focused discussion of PFA violations and contempt, including the distinctions between civil and criminal violations and the processes for pursuing each.  

This training is specific to the Delaware court system and procedures.  Those outside of Delaware are welcome to attend, however, the information may not be as relevant.  

Presenters

Ann Altemus, LCSW, Program Director of the Domestic Violence Treatment Program, CHILD, Inc.

Bailey Coco, PFA Compliance Coordinator, Family Court of the State of Delaware

Veronica Colombo, Director of Victim Services, Delaware State Police

Joanna Kauffman, DV Coordinator, Family Court of the State of Delaware

Ria Wallace, Senior Probation Officer, State of Delaware Probation and Parole

Cpl. Andrea Warfel, Delaware State Police

Helpful Links and Resources