The law allows stalking victims to seek out a court order barring contact between them and their stalkers. These orders of protection can be useful legal tools that both establish the pattern of abuse as well as provide the victim real help. If you want to seek an order of protection, you must first prove several facts to the court. It can be difficult to concentrate on your legal case while simultaneously coping with the trauma of your situation. Fortunately, you do not have go through this process alone. An experienced attorney can help you through the legal procedure of seeking an order of protection.
Stalking Defined
Under Illinois law, stalking is defined as a course of conduct (at least two separate acts) that causes a reasonable person to fear for their own safety, the safety of others, and/or suffer emotional distress. Some specific examples of stalking include:
- Following a person;
- Conducting surveillance of the person;
- Appearing at the person’s home, work or school;
- Making unwanted phone calls;
- Sending unwanted emails or text messages;
- Leaving objects for the person;
- Vandalizing the person’s property; and
- Injuring a pet.
These are just a few examples of stalking behavior. State law treats stalking seriously, and grants victims the chance to seek protection from their stalkers.
Types of No Contact Orders of Protection
A stalking victim, or a victim’s legal guardian, can petition the court for a “stalking no contact” order of protection. There are two types of these orders: emergency and plenary. These orders of protection prohibit stalkers from monitoring, following, threatening, or otherwise contacting their victims.
An emergency no contact order is only effective for a time period of 14 to 21 days. You do not have to notify your stalker about your petition. Instead, once the order is issued, your stalker will be told when to come to court. An emergency no contact order can help protect you while you seek a more long-term order. A plenary no contact order can be effective for up to two years. Unlike an emergency order, your stalker is entitled to be present at a hearing before a judge will issue this order. Your lawyer can stand up for you in court, and present your side of the situation. An experienced attorney can advocate for your protection, and help you get a protective order.
Get Help with Schaumburg Protective Orders
Our lawyers can help you through the complex legal process of seeking a protective order. We understand the stresses an incident of stalking can have on a victim. Our legal team is dedicated to presenting your side to the court, and working hard to secure you the necessary protections of a court order. Let us help you through this process, so you can move forward. Contact Glasgow & Olsson at our Schaumburg office today to schedule a free initial consultation. During that consultation, you will have the chance to speak with an experienced Schaumburg domestic violence attorney about your case.