Chicago Domestic Violence Lawyer
Some relationships are abusive. There may be someone who hits their partner on a regular basis. Some people tolerate this, allowing the abuse to continue until someone gets seriously injured or killed.
This is known as domestic violence and it is a crime in Illinois and other states. A person who hits, slaps, punches, kicks, or chokes a household member is violating Illinois Domestic Violence law. Even verbal abuse, such as harassing or threatening someone, is a crime.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, don’t continue to stay in your relationship. Get out as soon as possible and contact a Chicago domestic violence lawyer from Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC. We’ll help you understand orders of protection and other legal options available to you.
Who is a Household Member?
Domestic violence is a crime against household members. These include:
- Family members related by blood (parents, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc.)
- Those who are married to each other (or used to be)
- Those who share a home, apartment, or other common dwelling, such as roommates.
- Those who have a child together
- Those who are dating or engaged or once had a romantic relationship with each other
What an Order of Protection Can Do
An order of protection is a court order which restricts an abuser and only is available to family or household members. You can request a restraining order or other order of protection by:
- Requesting an order with your divorce.
- Request an order during a criminal trial
- Asking your attorney to file for one in court.
- Seeking an order of protection for yourself by filling out the paperwork at your local circuit clerk.
- Contacting a local domestic violence program to help you with the process.
An order of protection can do many things such as:
- Prohibiting the abuser from continuing the physical or verbal abuse.
- Barring the abuser from a shared residence.
- Barring the abuser from your work, school, or other specific locations.
- Ordering the abuser to stay away from you and others (such as minor children).
- Give you temporary legal and physical custody of any children.
- Requiring the abuser to attend counseling.
- Requiring the abuser to appear in court.
- Requiring the abuser to turn over personal property and barring them from damaging, destroying, or selling personal property.
- Requiring the abuser to pay for certain things, such as child support, shelter, and counseling services.
- Requiring an abuser to turn weapons over to local law enforcement.
Contact Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC Today
Domestic violence is a serious situation and while women are most likely to be at risk, men can also be victims. If you have been physically abused by someone in your household, seek legal help right away.
Domestic violence can be a life or death situation. Don’t delay. Contact the team at Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC right away. Protect yourself and your family by understanding your option. Schedule a consultation with a Chicago domestic violence lawyer today by filling out the online form or calling (312) 863-2800.
