Domestic Violence Increases During Covid-19

Domestic violence increased globally in the early weeks of the Covid-19 pandemic when governments worldwide forced people to stay at home to curb the spread of the virus.  With Covid-19 cases rapidly increasing in Illinois and Governor J.B. Pritzker hinting that new stay at home orders are likely, it is also likely we will see a rise in domestic violence in Illinois.  If you or your children are the victim of domestic violence please get to a safe place, then consider obtaining an Order of Protection.

An Order of Protection gives you some legal protection against continued abuse by limiting contact with the accused abuser, among other things.  There are several types of orders of protection in Illinois including:

• Emergency Order: These protective orders can be obtained immediately on a temporary basis by filing a Petition for an Emergency Order of Protection. The accused does not have to be present or notified for an emergency order to be granted.
• Interim Order: An interim order bridges the gap between an emergency order and a plenary order. It is used to extend the duration of an emergency order of protection particularly when a plenary hearing cannot be scheduled before the emergency order expires.  Unlike an Emergency Order, an Interim Order requires that the accused party must be notified and be given the opportunity to appear.  An interim order of protection can remain in effect for up to 30 days.
• Plenary Order: A plenary order requires a hearing where both parties have the opportunity to testify and present evidence. The plenary order will be issued if the victim proves his or her case.  A plenary order can last up to two years or longer if the victim petitions for renewal.

While domestic violence is certainly real and can have long-lasting physical and emotional ramifications, so too can false accusations of abuse.  If you are being accused of domestic violence, it’s critical to consult an attorney to protect your legal rights.  Orders of Protection can limit your access to your children and impact your employment opportunities.

Downers Grove Domestic Violence Attorney

To learn more about domestic violence laws in Illinois or Orders of Protection, please contact our offices to find how we can help.  Whether you are the victim of abuse or were accused of abuse, our dedicated team of legal professionals can help you navigate Downers Grove domestic violence law and protect your legal rights.  Please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Sources:

• National Library of Medicine
• NBC Chicago
• NBC Chicago