What is Domestic Violence?
In Illinois, Domestic Violence or “DV” is when a partner or family member hits, chokes, kicks, threatens, intimidates, harasses, or interferes with the personal liberty of the victim. In 1986, The new Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA) provides relief from domestic violence in the form of an Order of Protection. That Order may be granted in civil or criminal court.
The Law States, Ch. 750, § 60/103. ‘Abuse’ means physical abuse, harassment, intimidation of a dependent, interference with personal liberty, or willful deprivation but does not include reasonable direction of a minor child by a parent or person in loco parentis. ‘Domestic violence’ means abuse, as above.
Domestic Violence Hotline
If you feel you’re in danger or are a victim of Domestic Violence or know someone who is a victim, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (Below). You may also report any suspected violence, abuse, or neglect to any local or state law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement agencies are responsible for civil or criminal investigations. They focus on figuring out who committed a crime. CPS investigations are a civil court matter that focuses on the welfare of the child(ren) and family.
What is the Process of Domestic Violence?
The process of Domestic Violence varies based on who’s involved. For example, In Illinois, if kids are witnesses or victims of Domestic Violence, Department of Children and Family Services or “DCFS” will also be called along with local or state law enforcement to investigate, report, and act if necessary.
In Domestic Violence cases, the following can be involved:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Child Protective Services (CPS)
- Local Law Enforcement
- State Law Enforcement
- Jail
- States Attorney
- Legal Counsel
- Judges
The following services and remedies may be provided or required including:
- Physical Restrictions
- Communication Restrictions
- Drug Drops
- Hair follicle Testing
- Drug and Alcohol Evaluations
- Psychological Evaluations
- Anger Management Counseling
- Anger Management Assessments
- Revocation of FOID Cards
- Surrendering of All Weapons
- Assignment of Case to Guardian of Litem
- Counseling
- Therapists
- Child Support
- Parenting Time
- Exclusive possession of Residence
- & More.
How can Watson Law help you with Domestic Violence?
At Watson Law in Family Law dynamics, Domestic Violence is NO JOKE. We take all matters very seriously and document all evidence and/or reports provided by our clients, local or state law enforcement, DCFS, and/or the National Domestic Violence hotlines. After Scheduling an Appointment with us, be prepared and bring in all evidence or reports you have, and we’ll determine how we’ll get started protecting your right, safety, and well-being for you and your family. All our clients have our attorney’s personal cell phones in case issues arise fast or advice needs to be given.
