Family & Safety

In Illinois, a petition for an Order of Protection can be filed by the reporting party (petitioner) who is alleging they have experienced domestic violence from their abuser.

The alleged abuser (respondent) is required to be notified of the request for the plenary Order of Protection and given the opportunity to attend a hearing before a judge decides whether to grant the plenary order. There are also other temporary Orders of Protection that can be granted for shorter periods of time without the respondent being notified ahead of time. It is important that the respondent understand the processes as well as the orders. Violating the orders can result in fines, criminal charges, and/or time in jail. 

Learn more about Responding to an Order of Protection case common questions.