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Family Law Unit

PLA's Family Law unit focuses on helping survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their children. This includes helping them leave abusive relationships and build lives of their choosing.

Get Legal Help Now

The fastest way to speak with an advocate is to call the Family Law Hotline at 215-981-3838 between 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I need a Protection From Abuse Order

A Protection from Abuse Order is signed by a judge and tells an abuser to stop the abuse or face serious consequences.

I need custody of my child in order to leave my abuser

If you or your child is experiencing violence at home, getting custody can help separate from an abuser.

I want to move away with my child to get away from an abuser

If you have a child and you plan to move, you may need to get Family Court's permission first.
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You Have the Right to Unpaid Leave Due to Domestic or Sexual Violence

Did you know that all employees in Philadelphia are legally entitled to unpaid leave to address issues related to domestic violence and/or sexual assault?

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Law Student Clinics

PLA takes mentoring the next generations of advocates seriously. Our highly trained law interns provide high-quality, compassionate advocacy to our clients.

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Supporting Immigrant Survivors of Violence

At PLA, we support immigrant survivors of violence by seeking to dismantle the additional barriers they face and providing solutions with a trauma-informed and holistic service model.