Skilled Orland Park Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic abuse is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. If you are abused, it is important to seek help immediately. Illinois has a law in place to protect people from abuse. This law, called the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (“IDVA”), makes it a crime to physically or mentally abuse another person. The law is on your side. Talk to an Orland Park domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible. The attorneys at Johnson & Johnson, Ltd. are here to help you get through this difficult time.

What is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone in a domestic situation, including a child, spouse, former spouse, partner, or family member. Often times, domestic violence begins with verbal abuse and escalates over time. All too often, physical abuse can spiral out of control. Those who are being abused need to seek protection before further harm occurs. Some of the most common types of domestic abuse are:

• Physical Harm
• Stalking
• Harassment
• Interference with Personal Liberty
• Exploitation
• Intimidation

If you are the victim of any type of domestic abuse, it is best to discuss the situation with a qualified Orland Park domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney will assist you in obtaining a protection order to prevent further abuse from occurring.

Types of Protection Orders

An order of protection is a legal document that orders one person to stay away from another. The order is designed to provide the victim of abuse with the ability to live without fear of being further hurt. The protection order typically is granted for a specific period of time during which the parties are not to come into close contact with each other. There are several types of protection orders including:

• Emergency Order of Protection
• Interim Order of Protection
• Plenary Order of Protection

An emergency order of protection is often granted quickly based on the testimony of the victim. An emergency order is temporary and may last up to three weeks. After an emergency order runs out, an interim order may be needed to protect the victim until a permanent order is put into place. A plenary protection order is granted by a judge at a hearing and may last up to two years. If you have been abused it is essential to get help from an Orland Park domestic violence lawyer as quickly as possible.

How to Obtain an Order of Protection

An order of protection must be requested through a legal process. A knowledgeable Orland Park domestic violence lawyer understands the law and will help you quickly get the protection you need to stay safe. The victim, or legal guardian if the victim is a child, must explain the abuse and when it occurred. Keep records of any police reports and medical attention received, along with dates and times. If the abuse caused physical harm, take photos. Remember, it is your right to seek an order of protection to keep you and your family safe.

After the Protection Order is Granted

Once an order of protection has been granted you will be able to be less fearful. The abuser is required to abide by the rules of the protection order. The judge places restrictions as part of the order, which may include some of the following:

• Must not see or speak to the victim
• May not enter or stay on the premises of the victim
• Victim may be awarded physical care of a child
• Abuser may be required to attend counseling
• Abuser may not remove, transfer, or destroy the victim’s property
• Abuser may need to pay temporary support

There are many issues to be addressed in an order of protection. Each case is different and has a unique set of circumstances. An Orland Park domestic violence lawyer will be able to meet with you and answer all of your questions.

Consult with an Orland Park Domestic Violence Lawyer

Abuse is not okay. Regardless of the situation, nobody should be harmed by another, especially by someone they love. An Orland Park domestic violence lawyer is your advocate throughout the situation. The compassionate attorneys at Johnson & Johnson, Ltd. understand the pain and conflicted emotions that you may be feeling right now. Your lawyer will help you get the protection you and your family needs to stay safe and work through the situation. Contact Johnson & Johnson, Ltd. to schedule a consultation today.