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Legal Information: Illinois

Restraining Orders

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Laws current as of January 23, 2024

Will I have to face the abuser in court?

The abuser must have the opportunity to appear in court and present his/her evidence and testimony before you can receive a plenary order; but if the abuser decides not to show up, you can still get a plenary order. However, if the judge believes that testifying in the courtroom in front of the abuser and others may cause you serious emotional distress, the judge can question you in the judge’s chambers. Your lawyer and the abuser’s lawyer will be present for the judge’s questioning unless all parties agree that the lawyers do not need to be present.1

1 740 ILCS 22/215.5

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