Chicago Orders of Protection
Your Safety Is Our First Priority
If you are a victim of domestic violence, harassment, or stalking, you may feel frightened, isolated, and unsure of where to turn. We want you to know that you are not alone, and you have legal options.
The Elite Law Group provides urgent, compassionate, and decisive legal action to help you secure an Order of Protection.
Your safety and security are non-negotiable. Our priority is to use the full force of the law to create a barrier between you and your abuser, giving you the space and peace of mind to move forward.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An Order of Protection (often called a "restraining order") is a civil court order signed by a judge that legally requires one person (the respondent) to stop abusing, harassing, or stalking another person (the petitioner).
An Order of Protection can be a powerful tool. A judge can order the respondent to:
Stop all contact with you and your children (no calls, texts, emails, or social media).
Stay away from your home, workplace, school, and other specific locations.
Move out of a shared home (even if their name is on the lease or mortgage).
Surrender any firearms (FOID card) and not purchase any new ones.
Receive temporary custody of your children.
Pay temporary child or spousal support.
Violating an Order of Protection is a crime. If the respondent breaks any of the order's rules, you can immediately call 911, and they can be arrested.
Who Can Get an Order of Protection?
In Chicago, Orders of Protection are governed by the Chicago Domestic Violence Act (IDVA). To be eligible, you must have a specific relationship with the abuser (respondent). These include:
Spouses or former spouses
Parents and children (including step-children)
People who are dating or used to date
People who have a child in common
People related by blood or marriage (in-laws, siblings, etc.)
People who live together or used to live together
Disabled adults and their caregivers
You must also be able to show the court that you have been a victim of "abuse," which includes physical violence, harassment, intimidation, stalking, or interfering with your personal liberty.
1. Emergency Order of Protection (EOP)
This is an immediate, temporary order designed to protect you from imminent harm. We can help you file an EOP ex parte (without the abuser being present in court). A judge grants it based on your sworn testimony and petition if they believe you are in immediate danger. An EOP is typically valid for 14 to 21 days, protecting you until a full hearing can be held.
2. Plenary Order of Protection
This is the final, long-term order. It is granted only after a full court hearing where both you and the respondent have the right to be present, present evidence, and testify. We will be at your side, representing you and presenting the evidence necessary to prove your case. A Plenary Order can last for up to two years and can be renewed.
Types of Orders of Protection
How The Elite Law Group Can Help
Navigating the court system, especially when you are under stress, is incredibly difficult. We handle the entire legal process so you can focus on your safety.
We act quickly to draft and file your emergency petition correctly.
We guide you on how to document abuse, harassment, or stalking.
We prepare you for the court hearing, so you know exactly what to expect.
We stand with you in court, presenting your evidence and arguing on your behalf.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 first.
For legal protection to prevent future harm, call us. You do not have to face your abuser in court alone. Contact The Elite Law Group today for a confidential consultation.