A couple in their 30s has been working from home since the Illinois stay-at-home order began in March. They both have extremely high-demand jobs that require their complete attention. At the beginning of the shut-down, the wife asked her retired parents to come live with them and take care of their children while they are logged on in their offices.
The husband has never gotten along with his father-in-law, especially since the father-in-law started to drink more after the shut-down. Tensions have increased since the wife’s parents have begun living with the family full-time. The father-in-law continues to drink during the day and throughout the evening while hurling insults at the son-in-law. When the son-in-law eventually confronted the father-in-law, the father-in-law snapped and shoved him down the steps that lead into the garage.
The son-in-law suffered a concussion and needed treatment in the emergency room. Now the father-in-law is refusing to leave the home, claiming that they had an agreement that he and his wife would stay in the house until the shutdown order expires. The husband is now considering petitioning the court for an order of protection from his father-in-law.
The Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline Has Experienced a 2,000% Increase
Domestic violence episodes such as the one mentioned above have been happening all over Illinois since the shutdown. Illinois’ coronavirus stay-at-home order has resulted in a massive increase in calls to the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline. Their calls have increased by 2,000% from the same period of time last year. One volunteer at the domestic violence hotline reported that one caller’s abuser stormed into the room, took the phone while screaming, and threw it down on the floor.
The state of Illinois has increased funding for emergency housing for domestic violence abuse as well as providing Lyft and Uber rides for those in need. Still, the coronavirus stay-at-home orders have put domestic violence victims in an unprecedented amount of danger. Victims are forced to stay in an environment that is the most dangerous place for a victim to stay — with the abuser.
Seeking an Order of Protection in Illinois
While Illinois courts have shut down for most legal issues, they have made an exception for orders of protection. Those who have suffered abuse by a family member or member of his or her household have a right to file an order of protection. Individuals can also file on behalf of minor children or adults who are unable to file the petition themselves.
The son-in-law mentioned at the beginning would benefit from filing an Order of Protection. If granted, the father-in-law would be required by law to stay away from his house and stay away from him for a set period of time. If you have questions about an order of protection issue, our Cook County lawyers can help. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.