Filing for an Order of Protection can be a critical step towards a better life for someone experiencing abuse, harassment, or serious threats. In Illinois, these legal orders offer protection from physical harm, stalking, intimidation, and interference with personal freedom. But they are not one-size-fits-all, and although they do provide protection in most circumstances, they also come with legal, emotional, and safety considerations.
Whether you need to protect yourself and your children, or are defending against a wrongful accusation in a heated custody or divorce case, it is important to understand how Orders of Protection work under current Illinois law. A St. Charles, IL order of protection attorney at Goostree Law Group can help you take the next steps with clarity and caution.
What Is an Illinois Order of Protection Exactly?
An Order of Protection is a court-issued order that restricts the behavior of someone who has allegedly committed abuse or posed a threat. The person asking for the order is called the petitioner. The person the order is filed against is the respondent. In Illinois, Orders of Protection are governed by the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (750 ILCS 60).