My Ex Is Stalking Me During Our Divorce - What Do I Do?

 Posted on July 20, 2024 in Divorce

As you start the process of divorce from your ex, there is a chance that the stress of the situation can bring out the worst behaviors in your former partner. Additionally, if there has been a history of domestic violence in your marriage, you may be at risk of being stalked or threatened by your ex during a divorce.

Being a victim of stalking can be scary, and it is important to speak to a knowledgeable Illinois order of protection lawyer to understand how you can protect yourself from stalking behavior during your divorce.

Stalking During Divorce

Illinois law defines stalking as repeated behaviors that are directed at a specific person in order to harass, cause fear, or otherwise threaten that person. Stalking may happen during a divorce if there is a history of domestic violence, if one party feels particularly enraged or angered about the situation, or if one party is having trouble letting go of his or her ex.

Examples of stalking behaviors include:

• Spying on a victim’s behavior and interactions

• Tracking a victim’s online activities

• Showing up at a victim’s home, workplace, or school

• Sending repeated unwanted messages or phone calls to a victim

• Leaving unwanted gifts at a victim’s home, workplace, or school

• Spying on a victim’s family and friends

• Repeatedly vandalizing a victim’s home or property

Stalking is traumatizing for the victim, and stalking behaviors can easily escalate into violence against the victim.

Your Options for Legal Protection

In Illinois, there are a few different types of legal protections for individuals who are dealing with domestic violence and harassment such as stalking. When it comes to stalking, the Illinois Stalking No Contact Order Act outlines who can petition for a stalking no-contact Order of Protection.

In order to qualify for a stalking no-contact order, you must be a victim of stalking or representing a minor who is a victim of stalking. You will file your petition for a stalking no-contact order in court, and once this order is in place, your ex will be prohibited from contacting you or coming near your home, workplace, or school. Your ex may also be required to stay away from any shared children or your children’s school.

If your ex violates this order of protection, he or she will be faced with legal consequences such as jail time and fines.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Orders of Protection Attorney

A divorce is stressful and can bring out high emotions in the parties involved. If you are dealing with an ex who is threatening you or engaging in stalking behaviors, you may need to obtain an Illinois Order of Protection to ensure that you are safeguarded from his or her behavior. A skilled Kane County, IL order of protection lawyer can help you understand your legal options and file a petition for an order of protection if necessary.

Our attorneys at Shaw Sanders, P.C. are compassionate and dedicated to fighting for your security during a divorce. Call 630-584-5550 for a free consultation.