Best Illinois Domestic Violence Attorneys

Domestic violence is abusive behavior or violence that occurs within a domestic or intimate relationship. Definitions of domestic violence recognize that victims can include anyone, regardless of socioeconomic background, education level, race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Domestic violence can have several physical, emotional, and psychological effects on victims. Abusive behavior in domestic violence includes:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional and psychological abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Financial abuse
• Stalking and cyberstalking

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help at 1.800.799.7233.

Recognizing the signs of domestic violence is crucial for identifying and addressing abusive situations. Approaching this subject requires sensitivity and respect to encourage open communication and offer support. Common indicators that someone may be experiencing domestic violence includes:

• Physical signs
• Emotional and behavioral signs
• Isolation
• Control and manipulation
• Verbal and psychological abuse
• Sexual coercion and abuse

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help at 1.800.799.7233.

Every situation is unique and safety considerations may vary. Protecting yourself or someone you know from domestic violence takes careful planning. Reaching out to professionals who can provide guidance based on specific circumstances can help develop personalized safety plans. Some steps you can take include:

• Establish a safety plan
• Seek support and document evidence
• Secure important documentation
• Obtain a restraining order
• Maintain privacy and safety at home and online
• Financial independence
• Trust your instincts

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help at 1.800.799.7233.

Specific legal protections for victims of domestic violence can be found with experienced domestic violence attorneys, advocates, and organizations in your community. Common legal options and protections include:

• Restraining or protection orders
• Emergency protective orders
• Civil orders of protection
• Criminal charges
• Child custody and visitation orders
• Divorce or separation
• Housing and workplace protections

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help at 1.800.799.7233.

In Illinois, a general estimate of the per-hour cost for a lawyer can range from about $130 to $400 per hour, depending on location, expertise and the complexity of the case in question.

In some cases, attorneys may opt to offer clients a flat-rate fee instead of a per-hour fee. This typically arises in criminal defense law as well as certain divorce court proceedings. A fee for a misdemeanor defense is usually far less than the flat fee for a felony defense. Representation on issues related to juvenile offenses and traffic offenses may cost you less than the representation on situations involving corporate law or bankruptcies.

Finally, certain lawyers, such as personal injury lawyers, typically offer clients representation based on contingency. If you win a settlement from such a case, such as slipping and falling at a business establishment and incurring a serious injury, your personal injury lawyer will retain a percentage of your total settlement, rather than charging you any per-hour or flat-rate fees.

If you cannot afford representation in a legal matter, legal aid may be an option to consider.

While an Illinois lawyer can take on cases of any sort, the most common criminal cases in Illinois involve simple assault or aggravated assault, sexual assault, violations of the Controlled Substances Act, burglary (business and residential), driving while under the influence (DUI) and severe violent crime such as homicide and armed robbery.

Illinois lawyers are also typically called upon to represent parties in marital disputes leading to divorce or separation, the custody battles common to such cases, and other civil proceedings.