PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania – Tibbott & Richardson, P.C., a premier family law firm known for its strategic communication and client advocacy, commends the recent enactment of Pennsylvania’s Act 146 of 2024. The bipartisan legislation, signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro, amends the state’s Protection from Abuse Act, empowering judges to include companion animals in protective orders. It represents a significant milestone in safeguarding human and animal victims in domestic violence situations.
State Representative Christina Sappey (D-Chester) championed the bill alongside Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington), dedicating nearly four years to its passage. Act 146 provides explicit authority for courts to order defendants to refrain from abusing, harming, or possessing a victim’s pet – a critical step forward in addressing the traumatic intersection of domestic violence and animal abuse. The law aligns Pennsylvania with 37 other states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, underscoring its broad importance and impact.
“At Tibbott & Richardson, we recognize the devastating role that domestic violence plays in families’ lives, and we wholeheartedly support measures like Act 146 that provide expanded protections for the vulnerable,” says Beth Tibbott, Family Law Attorney and Co-Founding Partner of Tibbott & Richardson,. “By acknowledging the unique connection between victims and their pets, this law protects beloved animals and helps victims take the steps necessary to regain control and safety in their lives.”
The Humane Society of the United States reports that in a staggering number of domestic violence cases, abusers also target pets as a means of control and intimidation. One survey revealed that 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also harmed their pets. Act 146 addresses this reality, offering victims peace of mind by including their companion animals in legal protections.
Tibbott & Richardson is deeply committed to supporting families navigating high-conflict situations, including custody disputes and domestic violence cases. Through their unique strategic coaching and empathetic advocacy, the firm provides clients with the support and knowledge they need to overcome challenges and create pathways to a better future. Act 146 aligns with their ongoing mission to turn adversity into opportunities for growth and healing.
For more information, visit https://www.tibbottrichardson.com/.
About Tibbott & Richardson Attorneys at Law
Tibbott & Richardson is a premier family law firm dedicated to providing sophisticated legal services.
Our Vision is to be powerful advocates for our exclusive clientele, using strategic communication to manage legal intricacies and turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
Our Mission is to change the way law is practiced. We advocate by committing to client education, transparent communication, and strategic planning. We empower our clients to move forward as active participants in creating their own futures.
We are willing to fight to help you achieve freedom and peace. A freedom that is not worth fighting for is not a freedom worth having. We know that you are going through one of the hardest times in your life. We understand that you are dealing with some heavy emotions like fear, embarrassment, betrayal, hurt, anger, and frustration. Sometimes you need someone to believe in you until you can believe in yourself.
For the second year in a row, Tibbott & Richardson has been named as one of the fastest-growing law firms in the country on the acclaimed Inc. 5000 list of America’s most successful privately held companies. WHY? Because we believe you deserve freedom and peace and we are willing to fight to help you get it. A freedom that is not worth fighting for is not a freedom worth having. We know that you are going through one of the hardest times in your life. We understand that you are dealing with some heavy emotions like fear, embarrassment, betrayal, hurt, anger, and frustration. Sometimes you need someone to believe in you until you can believe in yourself.
Freedom & Peace are the most important things in life. You cannot be free until you realize that your life is in your hands. You are in control. Until you are free in your own mind, you cannot fulfill your purpose and you cannot serve others well. Until you have freedom, you cannot be peaceful. Everyone deserves a safe place where they can feel peace. You have to make that peace for yourself and your family, and you have to fight to keep it if a fight is what it takes.