Orders of Protection

An Order of Protection is a written Court Order which lawfully prohibits abusive behavior. The Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA) is a law that relates specifically to family and household members. Under the IDVA, a Circuit Court Judge can order and forbid a family or household member from continuous abusive behavior by granting an Order of Protection. Whether you are the person seeking an Order of Protection or the individual who is ordered to comply, it is extremely important to understand the severity and obligations of such an order.

The Order is protective by nature and usually requires that the alleged abuser stay away from the victim, ceasing all contact with him or her. The IDVA considers various behaviors as abusive including: 

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

These types of restraining orders are only put in place after a Judge deems it necessary. It is imperative to understand the Order and to comply with the restrictions outlined therein. Anyone found to be in violation of an Order of Protection will find him or herself in a legal position much worse than that which required the Order in the first place.

There are many different relationship scenarios that may require an order of protection, and each case is unique.