Top Questions About Illinois Protection Orders, Answered

 Posted on December 20, 2021 in Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is much more prevalent than many people realize. The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority reports that 42 percent of Illinois women and 26 percent of Illinois men have experienced intimate partner violence. If you have been harmed by a former or current family member or household member, you are not alone. Domestic violence may involve married couples, ex romantic partners, family members, or roommates. If you or a loved one were a victim of domestic violence, an order of protection may give you the legal protection you need.

When is an Order of Protection Necessary?

An order of protection, called a restraining order in other states, is a court order that can protect domestic violence victims from further abuse or harassment. If you have been physically injured or psychologically tormented by a family member, ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend, or someone with whom you share children, an order of protection can force them to stay away from you and/or your children.

Do I Quality for an Order of Protection?

Orders of protection are intended to protect domestic violence sufferers from further mistreatment. Domestic violence and abuse does not only involve physical harm like punching or hitting. Per Illinois law, the following actions may also qualify someone for a protection order:

• Harassment
• Interference with personal liberty
• Intimidation of a dependent
• Willful deprivation
• Physical abuse

What Does an Order of Protection Do?

Illinois protection orders can be customized to meet the specific needs of the petitioner. Most protection orders require the subject of the order to stay a certain distance away from the petitioner and desist abuse, harassment, and threats against the petitioner. Protection orders may also require the abusive person to move out of a shared residence and stay away from the victim’s school or workplace. An order of protection may be used to assign temporary custody of children to the petitioner. Additionally, protection orders may require the abuser to attend counseling or surrender firearms.

What if Someone Has Requested a Protection Order Against Me on False Pretenses?

Unfortunately, some people misuse the civil court system to seek unjustified orders of protection. Divorcing spouses or parents involved in a contentious child custody dispute may fabricate allegations of abuse or harassment to gain some type of advantage in legal proceedings. If you are in a situation like this, contact a family law attorney experienced in domestic violence matters for help.

Contact a Palatine Domestic Violence Lawyer

If you are a victim of domestic violence or you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, contact the Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. for legal guidance. Call Arlington Heights family law attorney Nicholas W. Richardson at 847.873.6741 for a free, confidential consultation.

Source:

https://icjia.illinois.gov/researchhub/articles/domestic-violence-trends-in-illinois-victimization-characteristics-help-seeking-and-service-utilization