Help! I Am Getting Divorced in Illinois and My Spouse is Stalking Me 

 Posted on December 21, 2021 in Divorce

Getting divorced is a difficult process and it is common for emotions to run high. Often, a spouse’s worst fears about relationships have come true, and dealing with the fallout of cheating, dishonesty, or abuse can prove very challenging. 

Nevertheless, certain behaviors are simply unacceptable during divorce. Rather than processing emotions appropriately, some spouses become spiteful, paranoid, and may even engage in stalking or harassment. If you have been a victim of spousal stalking or harassment during your divorce, there are things you can do to protect yourself and your family. 

Harassment and Stalking are Illegal in Illinois

When someone behaves in a way that, with no other legitimate purpose, would cause a reasonable person emotional distress - and the victim of the behavior does feel distressed - such behavior may fit the legal definition of stalking in Illinois. If someone makes an indecent or obscene comment, in person or through electronic or telephone communication, with the intent to annoy, threaten, or offend, that behavior may fit the legal definition of harassment in Illinois. Many different behaviors could be either harassment or stalking, including, but not limited to: 

• Refusing to leave a victim alone, even after repeated requests to do so 

• Waiting for a victim outside of their home, work, or anywhere else

• Monitoring a victim’s movements in person or electronically 

• Following a victim 

• Threatening a victim

• Repeatedly calling, texting, leaving messages, sending emails, or any other frequent contact between a victim and his or her family members 

• Putting false, degrading, or private information about a victim on social media 

You Can Protect Yourself From Harassment and Stalking

Victims of stalking and harassment do not have to simply hope that it will eventually stop. There are legal avenues that may stop the behavior or punish the perpetrator if the behavior continues. If someone’s behavior has made you fear for your or your children’s safety, you can file for an Order of Protection or Stalking No Contact Order that could require them from contacting or coming near you and your children. Individuals who violate a no contact order or protection order will face criminal charges and possible jail time. 

Call an Experienced DuPage County Divorce Lawyer

Getting divorced from a spouse who is harassing, stalking, or otherwise trying to intimidate you can be frightening and confusing. But at The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., our skilled Wheaton, IL divorce lawyers have seen it all. We have helped many clients get divorced in very challenging circumstances, and we will advocate passionately on your behalf to get you the help you need. Call our offices today to schedule an initial consultation at 630-462-9500.

Source: 

https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/women/ordersofprotection.html

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=3900000&SeqEnd=5400000