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Inside Legal Advocacy: Orders of Protection in McHenry County

September 10, 2025

At Turning Point, we support survivors of domestic violence not only emotionally and physically, but also legally. A vital part of that support is guiding survivors through the Order of Protection process in Illinois.

This post offers a behind-the-scenes look at how our Legal Advocacy Team empowers survivors to navigate the legal system safely and confidently.

Meet Our Legal Advocacy Team

Our team is made up of experienced, compassionate advocates with decades of combined expertise supporting survivors in the court system. At the heart of our work is a belief: we plant the seed in every survivor.

Whether it’s an initial conversation about safety or standing beside someone in court, we help survivors take the first steps toward safety and long-term healing.

How Orders of Protection Work

Helping clients obtain Orders of Protection is one of the most common — and crucial — services we provide.

1. Filing a Petition

Survivors can file a petition online or in person (illinoisprotectionorder.org). Legal advocates help ensure the petition accurately reflects their needs and explain legal terms that might feel overwhelming.

2. Emergency Order

If a judge believes there’s immediate danger, an Emergency Order is issued right away — without the abusive partner present in court.

3. Court Hearing

Within 2–3 weeks, a hearing is scheduled where both parties can present their sides. This can be the most intimidating step, but we prepare survivors for what to expect and provide support in the courtroom.

4. Plenary Order

If granted, a Plenary Order can last up to two years and be extended. It can include protections like requiring the abuser to stay away from the survivor’s home, school, or workplace — and can even grant temporary custody or child support.

A Safer Future: Karina’s Law

In February 2025, Illinois passed Karina’s Law (HB 4144), a major step toward improving protections for survivors. Named after Karina Gonzalez, a mother tragically killed by her abusive partner days after receiving an order of protection, the law closes dangerous loopholes around firearm access.

Key changes include:

  • Firearms must be removed within 96 hours of an order being issued.

  • Law enforcement can seize weapons and revoke FOID cards as needed.

  • Judges can now issue search warrants if an abuser is suspected of hiding weapons.

We’ve already begun incorporating Karina’s Law into our advocacy — ensuring survivors know that the law is evolving to better protect them.

What Legal Advocates Do

Legal advocates are not attorneys, but we play a vital role in helping survivors understand and access their rights. Here’s what our day-to-day work looks like:

  • Meeting with clients to assess legal and safety needs

  • Explaining the court process in plain language

  • Preparing and filing petitions

  • Providing emotional support and courtroom advocacy

  • Collaborating with police, prosecutors, and court staff

  • Referring clients to counseling, shelter, or outside agencies

  • Connecting clients with our 24/7 Helpline

Why It Matters

The legal system can feel overwhelming — especially for someone experiencing trauma. Survivors may feel isolated or unsure of what steps to take. That’s why our legal advocates are here: to make the system accessible, reduce fear, and remind survivors that they are not alone.

Whether we’re filing documents, explaining court procedures, or standing beside someone in the courtroom, we are planting the seed — of safety, strength, and long-term change.

Resource:

Safety Planning Around Guns and Firearms. (n.d.). The Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/resources/safety-planning-around-guns-and-firearms/

Credits:
Mary Denney: is the Courthouse Liaison and Legal Advocacy Supervisor and has been with the agency for over 30 years. She’s not only a cornerstone of our legal advocacy program — she’s a trusted guide for both clients and staff. Mary’s long-standing relationships with court personnel and her deep understanding of the system have made her a valuable leader and mentor.

Ivon Garcia is a bilingual (Spanish and English) legal advocate of 3 years, is passionate about empowering survivors and ensuring they understand their rights every step of the way.

Editor:
Cameron Schott, Marketing & Outreach Associate