Order of Protection

Illinois Attorney General


Ways you can obtain an order of protection:
-Ask your attorney to file in civil court
-Request an order with your divorce
-Request an order during a criminal trial for abuse
-Go to your local circuit court clerk's office
-Contact a local domestic violence program to ask for assistance in completing the forms

Law enforcement prevention of further abuse:
-Arresting abuser when appropriate and completing a police report
-Driving or arranging transportation for you to a medical facility, shelter, or safe place
-Taking you home to get belongings
-Taking weapons if probable cause
-Explaining the importance of saving evidence such as damaged clothing or property and taking photographs of injuries or damage

Violation of an Order of Protection:
-1st Offense: Class A misdemeanor - abuser could go to jail up to 1 year and pay a $25 fine
-2nd Offense: Can be a felony, courts must sentence abuser to 24 hours jail time and $100 fine