Possession of a Firearm While Under a PFA in Adams County: A Hidden Legal Trap

If you’re under a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order in Adams County and are caught with a firearm—even if it’s lawfully owned—you can be charged with a second-degree felony under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105(a.1). These cases are deceptively simple and often emotionally charged.

What the Law Says:
 If you are the subject of a PFA that explicitly prohibits firearm possession, you must surrender all guns immediately. Holding on to one—even for a day—can lead to felony charges, arrest, and jail time.

Penalties Include:

  • Felony of the 2nd degree 
  • Up to 10 years in prison 
  • $25,000 in fines 
  • Loss of your firearm rights permanently

Local Patterns in Adams County:
 We’ve seen cases where the defendant didn’t fully understand the surrender order, or disputes arose over who actually owned the firearm. Police in Gettysburg and surrounding areas are quick to act when someone violates a PFA, even unintentionally.

How We Fight Back
 Our firm investigates whether the firearm was legally yours, whether the PFA was served and understood, and whether your rights were violated in the process. In many cases, miscommunication or administrative delays result in wrongful arrests.

Facing a PFA-related gun charge in Adams County? Contact The McShane Firm now.

Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:

  • Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
  • Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
  • Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.

This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.

PA DUI attorney Justin J. McShane is the President/CEO of The McShane Firm, LLC - Pennsylvania's top criminal law and DUI law firm. He is the highest rated DUI attorney in PA as rated by Avvo.com. Justin McShane is a double Board certified attorney. He is the first and so far the only Pennsylvania attorney to achieve American Bar Association recognized board certification in DUI defense from the National College for DUI Defense, Inc. He is also a Board Certified Criminal Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a Pennsylvania Supreme Court Approved Agency.