There are many victims of domestic violence each year in Illinois. In countless instances, domestic violence can tear families apart and affect many people besides just the victim. It is important for the victims of physical abuse to be able to seek protection from the abuser to prevent any further damage. However, finding the proper protection is sometimes easier said than done.
One issue is that victims of abuse who rent may be evicted from their home for calling the police. It is estimated that 20,000 victims in Illinois shelters came from rental properties last year. That is why there is a new law in Illinois to prevent these evictions. Many cities in Illinois have ordinances that require the landlord to evict people from homes that have had the police called to them. This new law would trump any local ordinance and would only apply to domestic and sexual assaults.Thanks to this new law, victims of domestic violence will soon be able to call the police when violence has taken place without the fear of eviction, which is a very important step for protecting victims. However, there is another action that victims can take to try and prevent future violence from occurring. Victims of domestic violence can obtain orders of protection which would prohibit the abuser from having any contact with the victim. If the abuser does make contact when a restraining order is in place, the abuser could be charged with a crime.
Unfortunately, domestic violence is more prevalent than many realize. It is sometimes difficult for victims of domestic assault or spousal abuse to seek help from the police, but the new law will hopefully encourage more victims to call the police without repercussions. Victims may also obtain orders of protection to prohibit the abuser from contacting them. Local domestic violence attorneys can help a victim take the proper steps to help safeguard their future.
Source: Illinois Homepage.net, “Law prevents domestic violence victims from losing homes,” Kelsey Gibbs, August 31, 2015.