Wheaton Domestic Violence Lawyer

Family Lawyers in DuPage County Helping Abuse Victims Seek Orders of Protection

When you are the victim of domestic violence, it is understandable that you might feel hopeless and alone. The situation is even worse when it is your child who has been victimized. At Goostree Law Group, we know that domestic violence is a problem that continues in households throughout the country, including many here in northern Illinois. We are committed to helping abuse victims protect themselves and their children, and we have the knowledge and experience to do so.

Domestic Violence in Illinois

Under the law in Illinois, there are a number of behaviors that qualify as domestic violence, including some that are not physical in nature. In addition to physically violent acts, domestic violence also includes intimidation, harassment, restriction of personal freedom, and denial of needed care. Such behaviors are considered domestic violence when they are committed against a current or former romantic partner, family member, or member of the household.

Our lawyers take allegations of domestic violence extremely seriously, and if you or your child are in danger, we will go to work immediately toward securing a protective order. An order of protection is an enforceable ruling issued by the court that can keep your abuser away from you, your child, and even your home.

Orders of Protection Attorneys in Warrenville

There are three basic types of orders of protection in Illinois:

• Emergency Order of Protection: If you are in immediate danger, an emergency order of protection can be issued on the basis of your sworn testimony. The order can be entered without the abuser's knowledge or presence. An emergency order of protection can last for up to 21 days so that a hearing can be held for a more permanent solution.
• Plenary Order of Protection: After a full hearing in which evidence and testimony may be presented by both you and your abuser, the court may enter a plenary order of protection that can last for up to two years. This is the longest that any order of protection can remain in effect, but the order can be renewed with a new hearing before it expires.
• Interim Order of Protection: The third type of order can be used if a hearing for a plenary order cannot be scheduled within the 21 days covered by an emergency order. While a full hearing is not required for an interim order, the accused abuser will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations before the interim order is issued.

Once an order of protection has been issued, it cannot be violated. Depending on the situation, violations could lead to fines, imprisonment, and possibly criminal prosecution.

Protecting Your Rights in Warrenville and Lisle

At Goostree Law Group, we understand that domestic abuse can have a direct effect on the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time. It is reasonable for the court to limit an abuser's unsupervised access to his or her child. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for an individual involved in a contentious divorce or child-related proceeding to make unfounded allegations of domestic violence against his or her former partner in an effort to influence the court's decisions. If your child's other parent has accused you of domestic violence, our lawyers will work hard to show that the allegations are false and to protect your rights regarding your child.

In some cases, allegations of domestic violence can lead to criminal charges. If you are facing charges of domestic battery or any other offense related to domestic violence, our team can provide the guidance you need and the aggressive defense that you deserve.

Get the Help You Need Today

If you need help seeking an order of protection, or if an order of protection has been issued against you, contact our office for help right away. Call 630-364-4046 for a free, confidential consultation with a compassionate domestic violence attorney today. We serve clients in Wheaton, Downers Grove, Lisle, Aurora, Warrenville, Woodridge, and the rest of DuPage County.