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Court Advocacy Program

Court Advocacy

The purpose of the Court Advocacy Program is to inform and assist victims of domestic violence when navigating the legal system. In doing so, Court Advocates ensure that victims are aware of their legal rights under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 as it pertains to both civil and criminal court systems. Advocates are available to assist with the preparation of Protective Orders and accompany victims to court for support as they attempt to obtain relief from domestic violence. Although Protective Orders are temporary they can provide relief in several ways. 

Legal Remedies Available on Protective Orders:

  • Prohibit the respondent from causing physical abuse, harassment, interference with personal liberty, stalking, intimidation of a dependent, etc.
  • Exclusive Possession of the residence- this can order a respondent to be removed from the shared or common dwelling if it can be proven that the presence of the perpetrator places the petitioner and other household members in danger (if there is a threat to safety).
  • Temporary custody of minor children.
  • Prohibit the respondent from having any contact with the employer of the petitioner and school of protected parties listed on the Protective Order.
  • Prohibit the respondent from removing or concealing minor children.
  • Order the respondent to surrender any firearms and/or FOID card to local law enforcement.

Forms of Abuse that are Illegal in Illinois:

  • Physical Abuse
  • Emotional Abuse
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Stalking

Remember

  • You do NOT need a police report to obtain or seek a Protective Order.
  • You can seek immediate relief from the legal system (court system and/or Police Department) if necessary.
  • Reporting abusive incidents can be a powerful tool in legal proceedings.
  • You have a LEGAL RIGHT to reside in your home peacefully and safely, free from abuse.
  • Court Advocates are NOT attorneys; however, they are knowledgeable professionals that are experienced and trained to understand legal rights available to ALL victims of domestic violence in Illinois.
Lonely young latina woman sitting on bed. Depressed hispanic girl at home, looking away with sad expression.

Court Office Numbers:
708-232-4102
708-232-4488

Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse provides legal help for victims of Domestic Violence through our Court Advocacy Program. Court Advocates are present in the 6th Suburban District, Markham Courthouse Monday- Friday 8am- 4:30pm to provide assistance with filing an Orders of Protection, advocacy, information, and support that domestic violence victims need when navigating the legal system.

A Letter from Kris Scott, CEO

On behalf of the staff and board of directors of Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse, I extend our deepest condolences to the families of Shaneiqua Pugh, her seven children, and all those impacted by Sunday’s mass shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana.

In recent weeks, we have witnessed a devastating number of lives lost to domestic violence—individuals killed at the hands of intimate partners. Among them are Dr. Cerina Fairfax, wife of Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax; Nancy Metayer Bowen, Vice Mayor of Coral Springs, Florida; Pastor Tammy McCollum of Charlotte, North Carolina; Myneika Scott of Grovetown, Georgia; and Davonta Curtis of Chicago, Illinois. These names represent just a fraction of the lives lost. Too many stories go untold, and too many families are left grieving.

As these tragedies continue to unfold, I am reminded of the urgency of our work. Domestic violence does not discriminate—it affects individuals across all communities, backgrounds, and identities. In recent weeks, there has been heightened visibility around the murders of Black women.

According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, 45.1% of Black women have experienced domestic violence, and more than half of Black female homicides are connected to intimate partner violence.

At Anew, we see the impact of this violence every day—and we also see the possibility for change. We provide comprehensive, wraparound services to survivors, while also investing in prevention efforts that address the root causes of abuse.

We believe accountability is essential. Through our Partner Abuse Intervention Program, we work with individuals who have used violence, helping them take responsibility for their actions while building the skills needed to create nonviolent, healthy relationships.

We also believe prevention begins early. Through our Community Education and Prevention Program, we are equipping young people—from pre-K through high school—with the knowledge and tools to build safe, respectful relationships and break cycles of harm before they begin.

This moment calls for more than awareness—it calls for action. Each of us has a role to play in creating safer communities, supporting survivors, and holding systems accountable. Everyone deserves to live a life free from abuse. I remain committed to a future where that is not an aspiration, but a reality.

 

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