What Legal Help Can I Get in a Domestic Violence Case?

 Posted on January 25,2024 in Family Law

Domestic violence during a divorce, child custody dispute, or other family law matters is a major risk for the victim and any children. It is possible to receive legal help to protect yourself and your loved ones during this time, but you may not know which options are available to you. An experienced Illinois domestic violence attorney can help you file the proper protections and paperwork in court to keep yourself and your children safe from domestic violence.

What Should I Do if Domestic Violence Is a Risk?

Domestic violence is any abusive behavior against one partner in an intimate relationship. Domestic violence is not just physical violence but any emotional, economic, or verbal abuse. It can be hard to recognize the signs of domestic violence from outside of a relationship, and some individuals may struggle with leaving an abusive relationship for fear of their safety or the safety of their children and pets.

If you think domestic violence is a risk in your relationship or partnership, you can contact local or national organizations for assistance. These organizations can help you develop a plan to escape somewhere safer with your children and pets so you can pursue the next steps, such as divorce or legal separation.

What Legal Protections Can I Obtain for Safety?

Once you are in a safe space, you can start pursuing legal protections for your own safety or the safety of your children. In Illinois, you can file for an Order of Protection that will prevent an individual from contacting you. There are a few different types of Orders of Protection in Illinois, and you may need the assistance of an experienced domestic violence attorney to help you file for one in court.

Most Illinois Orders of Protection start as temporary, with the option to be extended once the court reviews your situation. Your attorney can advise you about the best approaches for legal safety protections that meet your needs.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence can be hard to escape from, and it is important that you reach a safe space with your children and pets before you start filing for divorce or legal protection. A skilled Kane County, IL domestic violence attorney at Shaw Sanders, P.C. can handle your case with empathy and provide you with expert guidance as you pursue your options for Orders of Protection or separation from an abusive partner. Call 630-584-5550 for a free consultation.