Act 79 – Security for Victims of Abuse in PennsylvaniaOctober 19, 2018
On October 12, 2018, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolfe signed in to law Act 79 which amends Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act (23 Pa.C.S.A. 6107). The changes modify some of the provisions that deal with the possession of guns and firearm by an
abuser and should provide enhanced security for victims.
The changes enacted by Governor Wolfe requires those convicted of misdemeanor
crimes of domestic violence or subject to protective orders to immediately (within twenty
four hours) relinquish guns and firearms. The current law provides that such weapons be relinquished within 60 days of the entry of such orders.
Another section of Act 79 addresses the individuals to whom weapons can be relinquished. Under Act 79, weapons can be turned over to the police, a gun dealer, or to a lawyer. Weapons may no longer be relinquished to a “third party”( as permitted in the prior Act) for safekeeping. The practice of permitting friends and family to hold an abusers guns is no longer acceptable or permitted.
Under the new provisions, it is required that service is made by the sheriff or authorized deputy sheriff unless the plaintiff specifically chooses or agrees to another method of service. Act 79 takes effect in approximately six months and is viewed by many as a great step forward in Pennsylvania gun safety regulation. Similar laws exist in Arizona, Hawaii, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Utah, and Washington.
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Sandy believes that the law is a great profession for women, offering intellectual challenges, as well as the opportunity to work with great people. She loves helping people through the most troubling periods of their lives and bringing their issues to a solid resolution. Sandy also enjoys the many facets of family law that make it infinitely interesting. She sees these aspects as puzzle pieces that she must fit together – from taxes and small businesses to trusts and estate work, future planning and much more – Read Full Bio
