Pittsburgh Domestic Violence Lawyer

Dedicated Domestic Violence Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA

Allegations of harming a partner or family member are one of the worst things you can be accused of. Mishandled dropped charges can have lasting reputational damage, while a conviction can lead to years in prison and a lasting criminal record. A skilled Pittsburgh domestic violence lawyer can defend you throughout your case and work to mitigate its effect on your future.

About Us

Levenson Law Firm has spent years representing Pittsburgh locals in domestic violence cases. Principal attorney Amy B. Levenson Jones has over two decades of experience handling criminal matters. She is a pillar of the local legal society, serving as a Hearing Committee Member for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s Disciplinary Board and as the Vice President for the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Western District.

Pittsburgh Domestic Violence Laws

Domestic violence remains a pressing concern across the country.  In 2026, the CDC reported that more than one in three women and one in six men experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetimes. Incidents can turn fatal, with 106 people dying in Pennsylvania related to domestic violence and 15 in Allegheny County.

Domestic violence and abuse cases involve a range of violent offenses committed, attempted, or threatened against a family member, intimate or sexual partner, or co-parent. Pennsylvania does not have one criminal offense for domestic violence and instead prosecutes it under charges relevant to the involved actions. Examples of related offenses include:

• Harassment. Harassment is defined as repeated threats, stalking, or intimidation that inflicts fear.
• Simple assault. Simple assault involves an attempt, threat, or causing of bodily injury.
• Aggravated assault. An assault charge becomes an aggravated charge when an incident involves the use of a deadly weapon or serious bodily injury.
• Strangulation. Pennsylvania has a separate charge for strangulation centered on impeding breathing or blood circulation in the throat, neck, nose, or mouth. No physical injury is necessary.
• False imprisonment. False imprisonment includes any use or threat of force to keep someone at home.
• Sexual Assault. These charges involve deviation from agreed-upon or non-consensual intercourse.

Most domestic violence cases in Pittsburgh are handled at the Allegheny County Courthouse, located downtown at 436 Grant Street, a block southeast of Mellon Square.

Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer

Accusations of abuse can be overwhelming. While you may represent yourself in all legal proceedings, the severe nature of abuse accusations makes it recommended that you hire a domestic violence lawyer to help with your case. Your Pittsburgh domestic violence attorney can provide many key services to your defense. Some ways Levenson Law Firm can serve your defense include:

• Explain the proceedings. Many charged with abuse-related offenses are confused about the potential penalties and the legal process. We can discuss your case with you and answer any questions you may have.
• Guide communications. Domestic violence accusations can pose a significant reputational challenge in your personal and professional life outside of court proceedings. Our team can advise you on how to discuss the matter with unrelated parties.
• Build your defense. Each domestic violence case requires a unique strategy. Your lawyer can build a defense based on the specifics of your situation. Common approaches include arguing self-defense, challenging weak or faulty evidence, or highlighting procedural errors made by law enforcement.
• Representation in court. Court appearances are often particularly stressful when facing serious criminal and civil allegations. Your attorney can represent you in all court hearings and meetings in and out of the courtroom.
• Negotiate a plea deal. Plea bargains can be a useful tool in scenarios where a conviction seems likely. These deals can reduce or waive prison time and change the crime that appears on your record. Levenson Law Firm can negotiate with the state for an arrangement that lowers the case’s effect on your future.

FAQs

How Likely Is Jail Time for Domestic Violence Convictions in Pennsylvania?

The chance of domestic violence penalties involving jail or prison time in Pennsylvania depends on many factors, such as the type of criminal charge, the extent of bodily or emotional harm, and any prior history of violence. A first-time offender convicted of simple assault is less likely to be imprisoned than someone who caused serious bodily injury with multiple prior violent offenses.

What Is a PFA in Pennsylvania Domestic Violence Cases?

Under Pennsylvania domestic violence laws, a PFA stands for a Protection From Abuse order. PFAs are a type of protective order requested by victims of domestic violence. They are typically granted in a temporary form that lasts until a final order hearing, where long-term needs are considered. In 2024, statewide courts received 41,980 PFA petitions, with 99.6% involving requests for temporary protection.

How Much Does a Pittsburgh Domestic Violence Attorney Cost?

How much a Pittsburgh domestic violence attorney costs is based on the variables of your case, such as the severity of related charges, the complexity of the case, whether a trial is necessary, and the total workload for the firm. Legal counsel hired for a simple assault case with mitigating factors and an early dismissal typically costs less than representation against aggravated assault charges that require a trial verdict.

What Are Common Mistakes People Make in Pennsylvania Domestic Violence Cases?

Domestic violence cases are sensitive legal matters in which Pennsylvanians make many common errors. The first mistake to avoid is commenting on the situation to any party outside of your attorney. Anything you say on social media or to another person can be used against you later on.

Another frequent misstep defendants take is attempting informal contact with the alleged victim. Trying to communicate with the involved party can be seen as a threat or coercion.

Speak With a Pittsburgh, PA Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

Levenson Law Firm recognizes the many challenges that come with a domestic violence case. We can be at your side from the initial accusation to the final court verdict. Our Pittsburgh criminal defense lawyers can use years of legal experience, knowledge, and skills to guide you through this difficult period.

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation, where we can learn your story and discuss strategies for moving forward. You may also visit our Pittsburgh offices, east of Schenley Park, west of Frick Park, and north of the Parkway.