(a) General rule.--Within ten business days of the filing of a petition under this chapter, a hearing shall be held before the court where the plaintiff must:
(1) assert that the plaintiff or another individual, as appropriate, is a victim of sexual violence or intimidation committed by the defendant; and
(2) prove by preponderance of the evidence that the plaintiff or another individual, as appropriate, is at a continued risk of harm from the defendant.
(a.1) Right to counsel.--The court shall, at the time the defendant is given notice of the hearing, advise the defendant of the right to be represented by counsel. The notice shall be printed and delivered in a manner that easily attracts attention to its contents.
(b) Temporary orders.--If a plaintiff seeks a temporary order for protection from an immediate and present danger, the court shall conduct an ex parte proceeding. The court may enter a temporary order as it deems necessary to protect the plaintiff or another individual, as appropriate, when it finds the plaintiff or another individual is in immediate and present danger from the defendant. The temporary order shall remain in effect until modified or terminated by the court after notice and hearing.
(c) Continued hearings.--If a hearing under subsection (a) is continued and no temporary order is issued, the court may make ex parte temporary orders under subsection (b), as it deems necessary.
Cross References. Section 62A06 is referred to in sections 62A05, 62A07 of this title.
Structure Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Title 42 - JUDICIARY AND JUDICIAL PROCEDURE
Chapter 62A - Protection of Victims of Sexual Violence or Intimidation
Section 62A01 - Scope of chapter
Section 62A02 - Findings and purpose
Section 62A04 - Responsibilities of law enforcement agencies
Section 62A05 - Commencement of proceedings
Section 62A09 - Emergency relief by minor judiciary
Section 62A10 - Sexual assault counselor
Section 62A11 - Disclosure of addresses
Section 62A12 - Arrest for violation of order
Section 62A13 - Private criminal complaints for violation of order or agreement
Section 62A14 - Contempt for violation of order
Section 62A15 - Civil contempt or modification for violation of order or agreement
Section 62A16 - Confidentiality
Section 62A17 - Procedure and other remedies