Many victims of domestic violence are unaware of the laws that are in place that will help protect them. A victim of domestic violence is entitled to the right to get an Order of Protection, granted by a judge, that will then give them more power to speak up against the attacker.
At Arab American Family Services, our caseworkers have been trained on the court procedures needed to advice clients on how to handle the different aspects of domestic violence.
Every Monday and Thursday, Fatimeh Hussien, an AAFS caseworker, is present at the Bridgeview Court House to help explain the process needed to obtain an Order of Protection, as well as helping determine which of the three kinds of orders a victim needs. Hussien talks to each client and tries to get a better understanding of the circumstances that lead to the victim coming forward. She is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in room number 204.
There are different types of Orders of Protection that a victim can be given.
An emergency order of protection can be obtained based just off your testimony to a judge. The judge can grant this order without prior notice to the abuser and without him or her being in court.
An interim order of protection can be obtained without having a full court hearing. However, the abuser (or possibly his/her lawyer) must have made an initial appearance before the court or the abuser must have been notified of the date of your court hearing before you can be given an interim order of protection. This order of protection lasts for 30 days.
A plenary order of protection can be issued only after a court hearing in which you and the abuser both have a chance to present evidence. A plenary order may last up to two years and there is no limit on the number of times an order of protection can be renewed.
For more information about domestic violence, orders of protection or how you can stay safe, please call (708) 599-2237.
(708) 599-2237
