As used in this chapter: the Act—Act of Mar. 21, 2014, P. L. 365, No. 25 relating to the protection of victims of sexual violence or intimidation, 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 62A01—62A20. action—a proceeding for protection from sexual violence or intimidation as defined in § 62A03 of the Act. court—the court of common pleas. emergency order—an order entered by a hearing officer, who is a person sat- isfying the definition set forth in 42 Pa.C.S. § 62A03. fees—any fees or costs, including but not limited to the filing, issuance, reg- istration, service or appeal of a protection action under the Act, including any foreign protection order. temporary order or temporary protection order—an ex parte order entered by the court pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 62A06(b). plaintiff—an individual who applies for a protection order, either for the benefit of that individual or on behalf of another individual. protection order or order—an order issued under the Act.
Rule 1951.Definitions.
Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1951 defines the terms for an action to protect victims of sexual violence or intimidation, including the 2014 Act it implements.
Full Text of Rule 1951
Plain-English Summary
This chapter lets a victim of sexual violence or intimidation seek a court order of protection, even without a family or household relationship to the offender. The opening rule defines its terms, including the Act of 2014 it implements and what counts as sexual violence or intimidation, framing the protective procedures that follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a protection of victims of sexual violence or intimidation action?
A court proceeding by which a victim of sexual violence or intimidation seeks a protective order under the 2014 Act.
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: sexual violence protection orderPSVI actionprotection from intimidation