What Is a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order in Maine — and Who Qualifies?

Wendy Moulton

Understanding your rights and options is essential when you are facing threats, harassment, or violence. In Maine, a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is a powerful legal tool designed to help individuals secure safety and relief from abusive behavior. If you live in York, Kittery, Wells, or elsewhere in Southern Maine and are beginning to research your options, this guide provides a clear, foundational overview of what a PFA is, who qualifies, and how the process works.

What Counts as “Abuse” Under Maine Law?

Under Maine law (19-A M.R.S. § 4002), “abuse” includes more than just physical harm. You may qualify for a PFA if the other party has engaged in any of the following behaviors:

  • Attempting to cause or actually causing bodily injury
  • Threatening you with violence
  • Forced or attempted forced sexual contact
  • Repeated intimidation, harassment, or following you (stalking)
  • Restraining your movement or isolating you against your will
  • Destroying property to intimidate or control you

Importantly, the court examines the pattern, context, and impact of the conduct — not just isolated incidents.

Who Qualifies for a Protection from Abuse Order in Maine?

A PFA is available to people who have a specific relationship with the person harming them. You may qualify if the other party is any of the following:

  • A current or former spouse
  • A current or former dating partner
  • Someone you live with or previously lived with
  • The parent of your child
  • A family member related by blood or marriage
  • A minor child seeking protection from an adult or another minor

Those experiencing harassment from someone they do not have a qualifying relationship with may instead pursue a Protection from Harassment (PFH) order — a different legal process but similar in purpose.

What a PFA Can Do

A Protection from Abuse order can provide meaningful, immediate safeguards. Depending on your circumstances, a PFA may:

  • Prohibit the defendant from contacting or approaching you
  • Require the defendant to leave your shared home
  • Grant you temporary custody of children
  • Restrict the defendant’s access to firearms
  • Prevent further harassment, threats, or intimidation
  • Establish distance restrictions (work, home, school, etc.)

What a PFA Cannot Do

Although a PFA is a strong protective tool, it does have limits. A PFA cannot:

  • Guarantee criminal consequences unless the defendant violates the order
  • Resolve long-term divorce or parental rights matters
  • Address property division or financial issues unless directly tied to safety

Many people assume a PFA automatically “punishes” the defendant. In reality, it is a civil order — not a criminal conviction — unless the defendant violates it.

Common Misconceptions About PFAs in Maine

  • “The judge will only grant one if there’s physical violence.” False — threats, intimidation, and other non-physical harm can justify a PFA.
  • “I don’t qualify because we never lived together.” Dating partners qualify even without cohabitation.
  • “The process is too fast for me to prepare.” The court moves quickly for safety reasons, but strong preparation is possible — and essential.
  • “A temporary order means I’ve won.” Temporary orders offer immediate safety, but the final hearing determines whether long-term protection is granted.

Why Early Legal Guidance Matters

Whether you are seeking a PFA or defending against one, the process moves quickly and the stakes are high. Early legal advice helps you:

  • Understand your eligibility
  • Prepare evidence and testimony
  • Handle communication with the court
  • Avoid common mistakes at the final hearing
  • Protect your rights and safety from the outset

In Maine, PFA hearings are scheduled rapidly, often within two weeks of the issuance of the temporary order. Working with an experienced attorney early in the process can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.

Considering a PFA? Get Clarity Before You Act.

If you’re just beginning to research Protection from Abuse orders in Maine, you don’t need to navigate this alone. Understanding your rights and your options is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family.

To discuss your situation confidentially, you can contact my office in York, Maine for guidance tailored to your circumstances.