CAN A COURT ISSUE A PROTECTIVE ORDER BEFORE YOU ARE CONVICTED?

Under Illinois law, the answer is yes “if the court finds prima facie evidence that a crime involving domestic violence, a sexual offense or stalking has been committed.” (See 725 ILCS 5/112A-11.5.) Prima facie evidence can include the complaint against you or a protective order in a separate civil case brought by the same petitioner. You may, however, present evidence that you had a valid defense in which case the court may decide not to issue the order.

If you are facing a possible protective order due to a criminal offense, contact an experienced attorney immediately. An attorney can help present your most favorable evidence in hopes of defeating the protective order. An attorney can also review your case for its best possible defense. Can the state prove all the elements of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt? Do you have a defense such as necessity or self defense?

If you have questions about this or another related Illinois criminal or traffic matter, please contact Matt Keenan at 847-568-0160 or email matt@mattkeenanlaw.com.

(Besides Skokie, Matt Keenan also serves the communities of Arlington Heights, Chicago, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Evanston, Glenview, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette and Winnetka.)