Domestic Violence Awareness is more than just a month. In October 1981, organizations and individuals across the United States of America joined together to speak out against domestic violence. Soon after in 1986, Illinois adopted the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 (hereinafter “IDVA”). In recognizing the seriousness of domestic abuse/violence and recognizing the ineffectiveness of the legal system, Courts have since revised their approach to allow victims to seek remedy from the legal system without fearing that their claims will not be taken seriously by the legal system. In fact, each state has passed legislation to make it a crime to commit domestic violence/abuse against other individuals.
The IDVA recognized the seriousness of crimes against the family and individuals that result from violence. Moreover, the IDVA specifically recognized that the legal system, at one time, had ineffectively dealt with family violence and allowed abusers to escape without answering for their crimes against individuals and the family. See 750 ILCS 60/102(3).
While this month is dedicated to bringing awareness to domestic violence prevention, we must support and promote prevention every day of the week. Unreported and reported cases of domestic violence and domestic abuse occur every day throughout the United States and globally. Domestic abuse/violence is not a laughing matter. The increase in awareness and preventions has afforded victims the opportunity for victims to seek help in the legal system as well as with community advocates speaking out against domestic violence. The address stress and trigger of the global pandemic as a result of the Coronavirus, has undoubtedly increased the fear of repeated or worsening domestic violence. Without the effects of COVID-19, the number of domestic violence cases were on a steady incline. This is a crucial time to advocate for justice for domestic violence victims and to provide opportunities for victims to reclaim their lives after they have experienced abuse.
Because many, if not all, victims of Domestic Violence feel helpless with nowhere to escape, our team has published Domestic Violence Stops With You: Available Civil Remedies in Illinois as a resource to let victims know there are legal remedies available in Illinois and the abuse CAN STOP. This book is for informational purposes does not constitute legal advice and should be construed as such. If you are in imminent danger, please contact 911.
If you, or anyone you know, is interested in a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation, you may contact our office by emailing here or by calling 815-600-8950
We are here to assist you
We are aware that everyone has been affected by the recent response to COVID-19 but we hope that you find some comfort in knowing that we are still operational and here to assist you. If you are a victim of domestic violence, we can assist you with obtaining an Order of Protection.
Whether you are a current client or if you are looking for family law or estate planning assistance, our team is here for you and will continue to be available to address your concerns.
To the extent possible, we will offer remote consultations and provide services from a distance.
You may message us here, email our office at info@sterkfamilylaw.com, or call 815-600-8950 and one of our team members will be able to assist you.