October: Shining the Light on Domestic Violence Awareness

 Posted on October 05, 2023 in Family Law

Each year, the month of October is designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Illinois and the United States. This crucial month provides an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organizations to come together to raise awareness, support survivors, and work towards ending domestic violence. At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, our Illinois family lawyers believe it's essential to shed light on this issue, not only to inform but also to emphasize the role of legal support in helping survivors seek justice and protection.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is a significant issue that affects hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the nation. It involves a pattern of abusive behaviors, both physical and emotional, used by one partner to gain power and control over another within a relationship. Domestic violence can occur in various forms, including physical violence, emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, and even digital harassment. It knows no boundaries and can impact people of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status.

Legal Support for Survivors

Legal assistance plays a pivotal role in helping survivors of domestic violence break free from their abusive situations and seek justice. Legal professionals can help victims create safety plans to protect themselves and their children during and after legal proceedings. These plans may include steps for immediate safety, such as finding a safe place to stay, and long-term safety, such as changing locks or phone numbers.

Our family law firm is committed to providing support, guidance, and advocacy for survivors through the following legal avenues:

• Obtaining protection orders - Domestic violence survivors can seek a protection order, also known as a restraining order or order of protection, from the court. This legal document can prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim, as well as other protective measures. The process for obtaining a protection order typically involves filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing. Our law firm assists survivors in obtaining restraining orders or protection orders to ensure their safety and prevent further abuse.

• Child custody and visitation - For survivors with children, our firm works to secure custody arrangements that prioritize the safety and well-being of the children while limiting contact with the abusive partner.

• Divorce and separation - We help survivors navigate the legal process of divorce or separation, ensuring that their rights and interests are protected.

• Property and financial matters - Our legal team can assist survivors in addressing financial abuse by helping them secure their assets and access necessary financial support, including child support and/or spousal support.

• Criminal charges - If the abuse involves criminal actions, such as physical assault, sexual assault, or harassment, survivors can report the abuse to law enforcement. Our law firm can help you contact the appropriate authorities.

Contact Our DuPage County, IL Family Lawyers 

It is essential for domestic violence survivors to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in family law and domestic violence cases to understand their rights and explore the best legal options for their specific situation. At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we stand with survivors of domestic violence and are dedicated to providing them with the legal support they deserve. Call 630-932-9100 to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our compassionate Lombard, IL domestic violence lawyers.