Connections for Abused Women and their Children

24-Hour Hotline 773 278 4566

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Power & Control

Types of Abuse:
Physical Abuse,
Verbal & Emotional,
Sexual Abuse

Protecting Yourself
& Others

A Survivor's Story

Find Contacts:
Chicago Shelters,
Suburban Shelters,
National Hotlines

	Protecting Yourself & Others The most effective deterrent against an abuser's violence is arrest and prosecution. An abused person may love her partner and hope the abuse will stop, but no one can change their abuser's behavior. If you are being abused, you can take steps to protect yourself and your children. Partner abuse is not just a family problem. Call the police if you are in danger. You have a right to police assistance. The police must write a report and have you and your children taken for medical care or to a safe place. You are eligible to get an Order of Protection for you and your children.
Order of Protection An Order of Protection (OP) is a court order that prohibits the abuser from committing certain behaviors or orders him/her to perform certain acts. There are 17 specific remedies available on an OP including prohibition against further abuse, exclusive possession of residence, temporary custody of minor children, visitation and/or payment of support, prohibition of firearm possession, protection of property, stay away and additional prohibitions. Violation of an Order of Protection can result in the abuser being found in contempt of court, resulting in fine or incarceration, or criminal charges, carrying penalties up to three years under certain circumstances. The laws regarding Orders of Protection are gender neutral, meaning women and men are eligible for protection from abusers of any gender. Orders of Protection can be obtained in either civil court (as an independent proceeding or as part of another civil proceeding such as divorce or guardianship), in criminal court (in connection with a criminal charge for which the victim must have a police report) or in juvenile court (in connection with a delinquency petition or criminal prosecution).
Helping an Abused Victim It is very important that you as a friend listen and believe her or him when they talk about abuse. Try to gently encourage her/him to do what is best for themself and children, but let her/him make their own decisions. Let her/him know, through your friendship and listening skills that you are there for them. Call us for information and referrals