Orders of Protection: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, harassment, or stalking, an order of protection may be necessary to provide legal protection and ensure personal safety. In Will County, Illinois, the attorneys at Tomczak Law Group have the experience and knowledge to help obtain orders of protection and defend against unwarranted orders.

What is an Order of Protection?

An order of protection is a court order that legally prohibits a person from engaging in certain behaviors towards another individual. Orders of protection are typically used in situations where there is domestic violence, harassment, or stalking. The order may prohibit the accused from coming within a certain distance of the petitioner, contacting the petitioner, or engaging in certain behaviors towards the petitioner.

Types of Orders of Protection

Orders of Protection are legal orders issued by a court that aim to protect individuals from harm or abuse. There are several different types of Orders of Protection that can be issued depending on the situation. Here are the most common types:

Emergency Order of Protection (EOP):

An EOP is issued quickly in emergency situations where the petitioner or another person is in immediate danger of domestic violence. It can be granted without a hearing and is only valid for up to 21 days.

Interim Order of Protection:

An Interim Order of Protection is issued after an EOP has expired, and before a full hearing can be held. It is valid for up to 30 days and can include additional provisions beyond those in the EOP.

Plenary Order of Protection:

A Plenary Order of Protection is issued after a full hearing where both the petitioner and the respondent have an opportunity to present evidence and testimony. It can be valid for up to two years and can include a wide range of provisions, such as barring contact between the petitioner and respondent, requiring counseling or anger management classes, and prohibiting the respondent from owning firearms.

Civil No Contact Order:

A Civil No Contact Order is similar to an Order of Protection, but it is used in cases where there is no familial or domestic relationship between the petitioner and respondent. It can be valid for up to two years and can include provisions such as no contact, staying away from certain locations, and relinquishing firearms.

How Tomczak Law Group Can Help

If you are in need of an Order of Protection or are facing an Order of Protection, Tomczak Law Group can help. Our experienced attorneys have a thorough understanding of Illinois' Orders of Protection laws and can guide you through the legal process. We will work with you to understand your situation, provide you with personalized legal advice, and help you obtain or defend against an Order of Protection. Contact us today for a free consultation.