Are you a loved one being harassed or followed by a person who does not belong to your family or who does not reside in your household? We have talked before about who is protected by an Order of Protection, but what if you have need of a restraining order for a stranger, friend, or mere acquaintance? Maybe someone you know has taken a fancy to you, and despite your repeated refusal to date them, they just will not leave you alone. Reasons for your stalker continuing to pursue you may vary: they believe they just need to win you over; they will not take no for an answer; or they are just plain obsessed, but what ultimately matters is your sense of safety.
If you feel threatened, harassed, or endangered, you should seek out a Stalking No Contact (SNC) order as soon as possible. You deserve to have your boundaries respected and to feel safe at your home, at work, or out on the town. If you have a loved one who is threatened by a stalker or an abuser who is not within the family, you can file on their behalf. Contact us to find out more.
Who Can Be Protected By a Stalking No Contact Order?
The definition of stalking under Illinois Law is actually quite broad. Within Illinois, there are two types of restraining orders, Orders of Protection and Stalking No Contact Orders. Together, they protect most individuals from the actions of an abuser, stalker, or other threatening individuals. While Orders of Protection are intended to protect from family members, boyfriends, spouses, or household members, SNCs protect against threatening persons who are not eligible for Orders of Protection.
Because of this legal intention, stalking can apply to a wide variety of acts, including following you, appearing uninvited at your home, work, or school, making unwanted phone calls or emails, threatening you, or leaving objects for you. The stalking acts must have caused you to fear for your safety and to feel threatened or to suffer emotional distress.
What Does a Stalking No Contact Order Do? How am I Protected?
The protections that an SNC can provide and the terms of the restraining order will vary depending on your needs and depending on the discretion of the judge. Judges can stipulate that your stalker must stay away a certain distance, is prohibited from following you, or that your stalker is prohibited from contacting you. The main goal of the court is to make sure that you have a valid case and that you are adequately protected and safe from harm.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer Today
It is important to get professional help in matters involving your safety or the safety of those you love. Do not delay in acquiring legal help from our law offices. Glasgow & Olsson is uniquely qualified to help, especially if you need help gaining protection against a stalker. Make sure to acquire legal assistance the whole way through to safeguard the safety and well-being of your loved ones and yourself. When you need an attorney, experience matters. Contact us today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.