A Schaumburg couple has been working from home since Governor Pritzker issued his initial stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 outbreak. They have been married for 20 years and the husband is a veteran of the war in Iraq who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. He has shown violent tendencies before but has begun to drink more frequently since the shut-down began in March.
His wife is concerned as he has been shouting at their two children more frequently due to the pressure of being quarantined together in a small space. Last week, he began shoving the couple’s 13-year-old son and screaming at him in a threatening way. On one occasion, he struck their son on the cheek, leaving a bruise. She has tried talking to him and has urged him to get counseling, but he refuses. She needs to get an order of protection, but she is not sure where to start.
Domestic Violence Has Increased During the Coronavirus Pandemic
The couple mentioned above is not alone. Calls to domestic violence hotlines have increased during the coronavirus pandemic. When spouses are stuck in a small space together for weeks at a time, tensions can run extremely high.
Many Illinois residents have lost their jobs, or they are worried about losing their jobs in the near future. Financial pressures combined with relationship issues are causing people to lose their self-control. Outlets, like going to the gym or getting dinner with friends, are no longer available. These stressors can lead people who have never committed domestic violence before to slap a spouse or shove a child.
Illinois Courts are Still Open for Orders of Protection
Illinois courts in Cook County and throughout the state have shut down and postponed many court dates due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Illinois courts make an exception for extremely serious issues, including an order of protection.
Illinois courts are ensuring that they have enough judges and staff on hand to hear petitions for orders of protection. If you need to seek an order of protection against a dangerous or threatening spouse, partner, or close family member, you can do so right now.
Understanding the Illinois Domestic Violence Act
Illinois’ Domestic Violence Act regulates orders of protections. You have the right to petition the court and ask a judge to issue an order of protection that requires your abuser to stay away from you and your property. In the scenario mentioned above, the wife could petition the court to issue an order of protection. If she fears for her child’s immediate safety, she can ask a judge to issue an emergency protective order that would go into effect without her husband receiving notice.
Contact Our Schaumburg Order of Protection Lawyers
If you need to petition the court for an order of protection or defend against an order of protection, our law firm is here to help. We are still fully operational and accepting new clients. We will fight for your rights during this difficult time. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule your initial consultation.