At Merel Family Law, we know how difficult it is for victims of domestic violence and abuse to recognize they need legal help and to take the first step toward safety. Victims of domestic violence often feel isolated and unsure of where to turn. Whether abuse is physical, emotional, or verbal, no one should have to face it alone. Our team works to provide legal support and protection for individuals and families in these situations. If you need legal protection, a dedicated and trusted Chicago, IL domestic violence attorney from our firm can help you take action.
What Legal Protections Are Available?
Illinois law provides several legal options to help protect victims of domestic abuse. The most common form is an Order of Protection. This court order can prevent the abusive person from contacting you, coming near your home, or communicating in any way. In some cases, it may also cover your children, pets, or other household members.
There are different types of Orders of Protection—emergency, interim, and plenary—depending on how long protection is needed and the stage of the legal process. We help clients determine which type applies and how to file for it quickly.
How To Get An Order Of Protection
Filing for an Order of Protection starts with a petition to the court. The judge may issue an emergency order the same day if there is immediate danger. This is typically a temporary measure until a hearing can be scheduled for a longer-term order.
We help clients fill out the necessary paperwork, file with the appropriate court, and represent them at hearings. If you live with an abuser, it is important to collect evidence, even if you are not ready to do anything with it. Voicemails, text messages, photos of bruises and other injuries, medical records, videos or audio recordings of abusive episodes, and witness statements can all be used as evidence to support your claims. The more details we can provide, the stronger your case will be.
Protecting Children And Custody Rights
Domestic violence often impacts children in the household, even if they are not the direct target. Illinois courts take this into account when making decisions about custody and visitation. If there is a history of abuse, the court may limit or supervise a parent’s contact with the child.
We work with clients to request custody orders that prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the children. In some cases, we also help modify existing parenting plans if new abuse concerns come to light.
Long-Term Legal Support And Safety Planning
Leaving an abusive situation is only one part of the process. We provide legal support for related matters like divorce, child support, and property division. It is especially important to have an experienced lawyer on your side when abuse has played a role in the relationship to help make sure that you will not be in a position where your abuser can continue to harm you in any way.
Part of our process in situations where domestic abuse is present, we discuss long-term options with our clients, including safety plans and ongoing legal protections. Each situation is different, and we help develop a strategy that fits your needs and goals.
Contact Us For Legal Support
At Merel Family Law, we are committed to helping victims of domestic violence take legal steps toward safety and stability. We have been helping Illinoisans with domestic violence issues and other family law matters since 2009. Our award-winning firm is a BBB Accredited Business and we have received 100s of five-star Google reviews. If you are facing abuse and need legal support, do not delay, contact us today. We will talk with you about your options and help you take the next step.
