Domestic violence & Orders of protection

The Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 recognizes “domestic violence as a serious crime against the individual and society which produces family disharmony in thousands of Illinois families, promotes a pattern of escalating violence which frequently culminates in intra-family homicide, and creates as emotional atmosphere that is not conducive to healthy childhood development.” 

One of the purposes of the Act is to “Support the efforts of victims of domestic violence to avoid further abuse by promptly entering and diligently enforcing court orders which prohibit abuse and, when necessary, reduce the abuser's access to the victim and address any related issues of child custody and economic support, so that victims are not trapped in abusive situations by fear of retaliation, loss of a child, financial dependence, or loss of accessible housing or services; ...”

At the law offices of Laura A. Epstein & Associates, LLC, we understand the circumstances of domestic violence and fear further compound a difficult challenge when dealing with child related issues and a separation or divorce.  Sometimes the fear of domestic violence makes it emotionally impossible to file for divorce.  The Domestic Violence Act is designed to assist in the protection of those victims of domestic violence.  Divorce is difficult without the fear for safety. It is very important that people are able to make decision for themselves and their family without the fear created by domestic violence. 

Some of our clients have been unfortunately been living in fear and feeling trapped for such a long time they forgot how enjoyable life can be without the added emotional burden associated with domestic violence.  Not only are the parties affected by domestic violence, but their children are clearly affected.  If children are raised with domestic violence, this may be the only family life they know. It is important to teach by example the necessity of life without violence.  Our attorneys, Laura Epstein and Nicole Beran, understand the high importance of the parties and their children to be protected from violence.  Many times the person is too embarrassed to address the issue of violence in their home or they have been repeatedly threatened not to discuss these issues. Our firm works hard at removing the internal conflict in our clients in order for them to work towards a life free of domestic violence.   

The Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 was also designed to protect high risk adults with disabilities.  The elderly population and disabled population is at risk for being victims of domestic violence and many times, because of their living situation or personal abilities, are unable to bring the abuse to the attention of others in order to receive the protection they need.  Domestic violence includes the “neglect” of a high risk adult with disabilities.  If you suspect a loved one or other high risk adult with disabilities is a victim of domestic violence, it is important to report the abuse and/ or seek assistance of legal counsel in order to protect those that are unable to protect themselves.