Westmont, Illinois - Date Issued: October 7, 2021
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin recently announced a new partnership between his office and DuPage Legal Aid (DLA) that will provide aid and support for victims of domestic violence and their families. Two attorneys for DLA were sworn in as Special Assistant State’s Attorneys to assist the Office’s Victim Services and Child Support Units.
Presently, the State’s Attorney’s Office assists victims of domestic violence in obtaining a protective order against an alleged abuser. However, the protective orders are only enforceable for a limited time and do not address any long-term issues that may arise, particularly if children or other household members are involved. If there are children involved, the Office’s Child Support Unit, in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, works to obtain financial support from the non-custodial parent. These Court-enforced child support orders not only ensure financial support for the child, but also provide for further assistance if needed. This new partnership will better allow the State’s Attorney’s Office to further assist victims with non-monetary issues covered by the Court’s order by providing the necessary legal guidance victims may need to make responsible decisions.
“My office remains committed to utilizing any and all resources at our disposal to assist victims of domestic violence who are struggling to raise their children without any support, monetarily or otherwise, from an absent parent,” Berlin said. “With this new partnership, we are now extremely well-positioned to further assist those in need in addressing custody, health, education and other long-term issues involving their children.”
REPORT DOMESTIC ABUSE
Citizens are encouraged to call the police to report domestic abuse. If a person is pushed, hit, or threatened, then they should contact the police. Once a report has been created and a criminal case is being pursued, the victim can request a protective order against the alleged abuser. This new partnership between the State’s Attorney and DLA will assist victims with receiving the help they need.
Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office’s Victim Services Unit at SAOVictimServicesUnit@dupageco.org or 630-407-8010.
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