Which Protective Order Is Right for Me? (KB)
If someone is threatening, harassing, or abusing you in Illinois, you might be able to get a court order to help keep them away. These are called protective orders or orders of protection, and they can offer legal protection and peace of mind when you’re dealing with a dangerous or hostile situation.
Illinois law allows for different types of protective orders depending on your relationship to the person causing harm and the kind of conduct they’ve engaged in. Knowing which order to ask for can help you take action quickly and safely.
Types of Protective Orders in Illinois
Illinois offers three main types of protective orders. The one you need will depend on the facts and circumstances of your situation:
- Order of Protection: This is for people who are experiencing abuse or threats from a family member, household member, or someone they’re dating. That includes spouses, former spouses, parents, children, and people you live with or used to live with.
- Civil No Contact Order: This is usually for victims of sexual assault. You can file for this order regardless of your relationship with the offender. You don’t need to prove a dating or familial connection.
- Stalking No Contact Order (SNCO): This is for cases where someone is following, monitoring, or harassing you in a way that makes you fear for your safety. Like the civil no contact order, you do not have to know the person to get this kind of order.
There are other types that may apply in more limited cases, such as Firearm Restraining Orders and Workplace Protection Restraining Orders. Each order is designed to stop specific forms of abuse or intimidation and protect you from further harm.
What Can a Protective Order Do?
An order of protection can place several legal restrictions on the person who is bothering or threatening you. Depending on the type of order, the court might:
- Prohibit them from contacting you in any way
- Order them to stay a certain distance away from you, your home, school, or work
- Remove them from a shared home
- Stop them from possessing firearms
- Require them to go to counseling or treatment
Violating a protective order is a serious offense in Illinois and can lead to arrest or additional criminal charges.
How Do I Get a Protective Order in Illinois?
You can file for a protective order at your local courthouse or online through Illinois Legal Aid. In an emergency, a judge can issue a temporary order the same day, sometimes without the abuser present. This is called an emergency order of protection.
Later, a hearing will be scheduledfore both sideston present evidence. If the judge agrees with your case, they can enter a plenary order, which can last up to two years and be renewed if needed.
You don’t need a lawyer to file, but having one can help you prepare for the hearing and gather evidence to support your request.
Contact a Family Lawyer for Help With a Protective Order
Protective orders can be powerful tools for protecting yourself and your loved ones, but the process can feel overwhelming if you’re already in a stressful situation. If you need help understanding your legal options or filling out the right forms, consider reaching out to a family law attorney in Illinois.
They can explain your rights, guide you through the court process, and stand by you in court if needed. Most importantly, they’ll help you take the steps you need to stay safe and regain control.
Contact KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys for help today. We’ll listen to your story and formulate the best plan of action for your case.
Contact the Chicago Family Lawyers at KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys To Get Legal Assistance Today
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call our Family lawyers or reach out to KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys online by visiting our contact us page.
We serve Cook County and surrounding areas in Illinois. You can also visit our offices in Chicago. We are conveniently located in:
KHK Family Law & Divorce Attorneys Chicago Office
166 W Washington St suite 400, Chicago, IL 60602, United States
(312) 702-0068