When an Order of Protection is granted, the Respondent (the abuser) must follow the rules that are included in it until it ends. Both parties should read the order carefully to make sure they understand it.

Either person can ask the judge to change, end, or extend an order of protection.

No one should pressure you to dismiss an Order of Protection. If you need help deciding what to do, you can call the Illinois Domestic Violence Helpline at (877) 863-6338. 

Option 1: Changing or ending your protective order

Either party in a protective order cases can file a Motion to Modify (change), or a Motion to Terminate (end) the protective order. The clerk will set a court date for you to appear and present this to the judge. You will have to send the Respondent a copy of your motion. When you return to court, the judge will decide whether to modify or terminate the order. 

Learn more about preparing, filing, and presenting motions in court. 

Option 2: Extending an order when it expires

If you are still afraid of the Respondent, you can ask the judge to extend your protective order. This must be done before it expires. You will need to go to court a few weeks before it ends and file a Motion to Extend the protective order. The clerk will set a court date, and you will have to send the Eespondent a copy of your motion. When you return to court, the judge will decide whether to extend your protective order.

Learn more about preparing, filing, and presenting motions in court.