Order Of Protection

Our Legal Advocacy Program provides assistance if you need an emergency or plenary order of protection. In most situations, our advocates are able to go to court to support you when you appear in front of a judge to ask for the order of protection. We can also provide counseling and support, but our advocates do not provide legal representation.

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Orders of protection are based on relationship. Ideally the order should be filed in the victim's county of residence, and the filer should be at least 18 years of age. Orders of protection for those under the age of 18 should be filed by an adult, preferably the victim's parent or legal guardian. While orders of protection can be filed by anyone, some counties prefer the victim be assisted by a SWAN advocate. Every county, clerk, and circuit court have different requirements, although the required forms can be downloaded from the Illinois Supreme Court's website.