CIVIL NO CONTACT ORDERS

What is a Civil No Contact Order?
It is a civil remedy available to victims of sexual assault. It is a court document that requires the offender to stay away from the victim.

How is this different from an Order of Protection?

An Order of Protection requires that the victim and offender have an established relationship. This could include a dating or family relationship. A Civil No Contact Order is designed to protect victims from offenders where there is little or no relationship.

A Civil No Contact Order is also designed specifically for victims of sexual violence. Orders of Protection may be used in non-sexual, yet abusive circumstances.

Who is eligible for a Civil No Contact Order?
Any person who is a victim of non-consensual sexual conduct or non-consensual sexual penetration is eligible for a Civil No Contact Order. Also, any person can file on behalf of a victim who cannot because of age, disability, health, or inaccessibility.

How much does a Civil No Contact Order cost?
There is no fee to file a Civil No Contact Order.

How can I get a Civil No Contact Order?
ASSAULT AND ABUSE SERVICES OF STEPHENSON COUNTY (AASSC) can provide the necessary forms for filing a Civil No Contact Order. An AASSC Advocate can provide assistance/and accompaniment during the filing and hearing processes. An AASSC Advocate may not complete the documentation or act as a legal representative. Communications between the victim and Advocate are protected by the laws of confidentiality.

The paperwork is done - now what?
After the petition is completed, the papers are presented to a judge at the Stephenson County Courthouse. The judge reads through the petition, asks the victim (or petitioner) questions if necessary, and the judge decides whether or not to grant the Civil No Contact Order. If granted, the order will be directed to the Sheriff's Office and the summons will be served to the offender.

How long will the Civil No Contact Order last?
The Emergency Civil No Contact Order will last up to 21 days. This Emergency order can be extended at a scheduled hearing, in which a Plenary Civil No Contact Order may be granted for up to two years. Civil No Contact Orders are in effect until the judge vacates them through a court proceeding, or they reach their expiration date stated on the order. These orders may also be extended or modified through the court system. An AASSC Advocate can also assist you with this process.

If you are in need of a Civil No Contact Order, please contact AASSC for an appointment.

Links:
ICASA Civil No Contact Order forms
ICASA Legal issues and documents

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