Naperville, IL Order of Protection Attorneys

Dedicated Attorneys Assisting With Orders of Protection in Naperville, Illinois

All too often, victims of domestic violence are forced to suffer in silence. The fear of retaliation often keeps survivors from seeking help. However, there are legal avenues to put a stop to abuse committed by a member of your family or household. A Naperville, IL family law attorney can help you file an order of protection, pursuing relief in the short- and long term.

Filing an order of protection requires multiple complex steps, and a simple mistake could lead to delays or a denied petition. Fay & Farrow can help protect your rights, guiding you through each step. We have decades of legal experience and a deep understanding of Illinois law, so you can rely on us to fight for your rights during your case.

If you are in immediate danger of domestic violence, call 911 and make sure you are at a safe location, such as a domestic violence shelter or a trusted friend or relative's home.

When Can You Seek an Order of Protection?

If you face threats, harassment, stalking, or violence from a family member, intimate partner, roommate, or someone with whom you share a child, you may qualify to seek an order of protection under Illinois law. You do not need to wait for an assault to occur before taking action. The moment you feel unsafe or coerced, you can ask the court for help in the form of emergency or longer-term relief.

Orders of protection can address a range of behaviors, including physical violence, credible threats of harm, unwanted communication, or interference with your custody of a child. Filing for emergency protection can also trigger temporary custody, parenting time, and support provisions when minor children are involved. You should consider seeking an order as soon as possible if you believe your safety is at risk.

Types of Orders of Protection in Illinois

In Illinois, the court system offers three primary forms of relief to address immediate and ongoing safety concerns:

• Emergency Order of Protection: Issued by a judge without advance notice to the respondent, this order is designed to provide immediate, short-term relief—typically valid for up to 14-21 days—when the court clerk's office is closed or when you cannot wait for a full hearing.
• Interim Order of Protection: Entered after your abuser has been served with papers or appeared in court, this order remains in effect until the plenary hearing. It bridges the gap between filing and trial to ensure continued protection.
• Plenary Order of Protection: Granted after a full hearing where both parties may present evidence and testimony, this order can last up to two years and can include provisions for no contact, exclusion from the home, parenting time restrictions, and other protective measures.

Attending a Hearing for a Plenary Order of Protection

A hearing for a plenary order of protection typically takes place 14 to 21 days after your initial filing. At that hearing, you and the respondent will have the opportunity to present sworn testimony, witness statements, photographs, medical records, police reports, and any other relevant evidence. The judge will evaluate whether the statutory criteria for protection have been met, with the guiding principle being the safety and best interests of any involved children.

Preparation is key. Before the hearing, you should organize your documents, prepare a concise narrative of each incident, and get in contact with witnesses who can corroborate your account. Dress professionally, arrive early, and be prepared to answer questions clearly and truthfully. If you have already obtained an interim or emergency order, bring a copy to the courtroom so the judge can see the history of your case. Our attorneys can speak on your behalf in court and make an argument for your continued safety.

Contact a Naperville, IL Order of Protection Attorney

At Fay & Farrow, our team understands how frightening and uncertain this process can be. We will listen carefully to your concerns and advocate effectively on your behalf at every stage. Call 630-961-0060 or contact our Naperville, IL order of protection attorneys today to arrange a free consultation.