Domestic Violence / Orders of Protection

A Chicago Family Law Attorney Skilled in Domestic Violence Matters and Orders of Protection

If you are living in fear or being intimidated by someone close to you, the law is on your side. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to obtain an order of protection against the person who is harassing you. If you are in an abusive (abuse can be physical, verbal or emotional) relationship you should seek an emergency order of protection as soon as possible to help stop the abusive cycle. A skilled Chicago divorce attorney at the Chicago family law firm Taradash Given, P.C. will be happy to speak with you about obtaining a protective order due to domestic violence. Contact an attorney online, or call (312) 775-1020 to set up an appointment today.

What is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection in Illinois is a type of restraining order. Most commonly an order of protection requires the person against whom the order is issued to stay a certain distance away from the person seeking the order. If the subject of the order violates it, the person who obtained it can use the justice system to enforce the order.

There are other functions of an order of protection, including:

• Require a party to relinquish control of a firearm to police,
• Require a party to pay child support;
• Require a party to obtain counseling;
• Prohibit a person from visiting a residence; and
• Award the moving party temporary custody of any minor children

How to Obtain an Order of Protection in Illinois

In order to obtain a permanent order of protection, a hearing must be held at which both parties appear. However, the courts allow victims of domestic violence and others seeking an order of protection to seek an emergency order of protection. An emergency order of protection does not require notice to the subject of the order, meaning that it can become effective immediately.

Generally speaking, an emergency order of protection will only last a short while. During the emergency order, a person seeking a permanent order may attempt to serve the subject of the order in hopes of securing a permanent order.

Who Can be the Subject of an Order of Protection

Illinois courts allow orders of protection to be issued against the following parties:

• Blood relative;
• Current or former spouse;
• Former housemate;
• People involved (or formerly involved) in any kind of romantic relationship; and
• Relative by marriage

In Illinois, both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships qualify for an order of protection.

Are You Considering Seeking an Order of Protection?

If you are a victim of domestic violence, or are otherwise being harassed by someone, you should seriously consider seeking an emergency order of protection against that person. The skilled Chicago divorce lawyers at the family law firm of Taradash Given, P.C. have ample experience protecting abused and harassed people and executing orders of protection. They proudly serve clients throughout the Chicago area, as well as Lake County, DuPage County, and Will County. Contact an attorney today to get the process started. To contact Taradash Given, P.C. use the online form or call (312) 775-1020.