Applying for any kind of order of protection is never easy, and is usually preceded by months or years or terrifying emotional or physical abuse. But the state of Illinois takes the safety of its residents very seriously, particularly when they are children, and has several types of orders of protection available to those who need them.

One of these - a Plenary Order of Protection, or POP - is a long-standing order of protection that lasts much longer than an Emergency Order of Protection or “restraining order.” POPs do require a hearing, but because the hearing is evidence-based and requires the presence of both parties, it can grant victims greater protection.

How Can I File for a Plenary Order of Protection in Illinois?

In order to file for any order of protection, you must bring the appropriate paperwork to your local courthouse. This paperwork is available online and can be filled out in advance. Sometimes a clerk may be available to help you fill out forms, but not always.

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Obtaining an order of protection is one of the most helpful actions that Illinois victims of domestic violence can take. An order of protection legally prohibits your abuser from having contact with you and other victims. Forms of domestic violence include:

• Physical abuse;
• Harassment;
• Intimidation; and
• Obstruction of personal liberties.

A domestic violence incident may be an emergency for the victim, but obtaining and keeping an order of protection requires following a legal process. The steps are meant to provide immediate and lasting protection for domestic violence victims, while also protecting the accused from false or unfair claims.

Types of Orders

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When a relationship starts becoming abusive, the person being abused may not even realize it. She may convince herself that the abuser is only upset and taking it out on her because he loves her or that the abuse was an accident.

Some people have a set definition of what qualifies as abuse and the truth is, many things can be abusive and it really depends on how the person being abused feels about it. One thing that is certain is that no one has to stay in an abusive relationship. Family law attorneys in Batavia, Illinois can help protect you from your abuser with an Order of Protection.

Abuse typically starts out small and builds into much more aggressive acts. Some actions that are considered abusive and also may lead to worse acts of harm, according to DomesticViolence.org, include:

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