What about Domestic Violence?
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, Bridgeport Police stands ready to help. Police officers will respond quickly to assaults, and will arrest abusers within the guidelines allowable by law. Officers will also assist victims in obtaining and enforcing protection from abuse orders. (PFA) PFA self help guides may be obtained at the police station. PFA’s can be filed against:
- a family or household member
- a current or former sexual or intimate partner
- the parent of your child
“Family or household member” includes at least:
- your current or former spouse
- person who lives or lived with you like a spouse
- your parent
- your child
- your brother or sister
- a family member related by blood or marriage
To obtain a PFA you must fill out a PFA form available through the Women’s center or at the Prothonotary’s Office at the Montgomery County Court House in Norristown. A women’s center advocate is available in the prothonotary’s office between 10:00AM and 3:00PM to answer any of your questions.
There is a cost for filing a PFA. The fee is $125.00, plus $53 for Sheriffs service costs. A $25.00 State Police surcharge is paid by the defendant
However you can file for free. You must fill out an affidavit of inability to pay (it’s on the petition form).
Additional resources for victims of domestic violence:
- Laurel House-hot line 800-642-3150
- National Domestic Violence Hotline- phone # 800-799-SAFE www.ndvh.org
- Women’s Center of Montgomery County- hotline 800-773-2424 www.wcmontco.org