For those who have faced the unfortunate circumstances of being abused or neglected by family members, leaving a dangerous situation can sometimes be almost as frightening as staying. If you have been a victim of domestic violence, or if you are living in fear that you or your children may be harmed by a family member, a family law attorney can help you obtain an order of protection. 

Qualifying for an Order of Protection

According to the Illinois State Police, you may be granted an order of protection against any of the following:

• A spouse or ex-spouse
• Parents, children, or stepchildren
• Someone with whom you formerly lived
• Someone you dated or to whom you were engaged
• Your children’s co-parent 
• Personal assistants to people with disabilities

Types of abuse that an order of protection may address include:

Foster parents develop close relationships with the children they bring into their homes. Sometimes the bonds grow so strong they are difficult, if not impossible, to break. If you have been fostering a child (or children) and you are ready to dedicate yourself to raising them permanently, you may be leaning toward adoption. In some cases, however, guardianship may be a more viable choice. 

When to Choose Adoption

Adopting a child means you legally assume the full role of a parent. You will have all the same rights as parents who have had their own children, and you must also take on all the same responsibilities at your own cost. You will be the child’s lifelong parent, and you will need to provide food, shelter, education, medical care, and ensure the child’s needs are met at least until they are 18 years old. In order to be eligible for adoption, a child’s parents must give up their legal parental rights, or they must have their rights revoked in court.