Clerk of the Circuit Court

Once an Order of Protection is issued by a judge, the case records are maintained by the Circuit Clerk’s Office. 

State's Attorney's Office

If You Report a Case of Domestic Violence

Once an officer has responded to a scene, a report is taken and the Felony Review Division of the State's Attorneys Office is contacted.

The Felony Review Division starts the early stages of the criminal case. If it is determined that the facts warrant charging an offender, the case will be charged and once the offender is arrested, a bond hearing will take place in C-120.

You will be contacted by the Felony Review Counselor. The office can be contacted at 847-377-3000. The office can explain the procedures, bond, charges and future court dates.

If You are a Victim Involved in a Criminal Proceeding

The State's Attorneys Office can offer support and information through the Victim/Witness Unit. A counselor is assigned to every case and is available to answer any questions regarding the, often times, intimidating legal process. A counselor can provide information on counseling programs, financial assistance and legal aid.

For additional information, please visit the State's Attorney's website.

Lake County Sheriff's Office & Local Police Departments

If an Emergency Order of Protection is issued, the Sheriff will enter your Emergency Order of Protection into the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS). However, you should also provide a copy of your Order of Protection to the local police agencies where you live, where you work and any other protected area named in your order.

If an Emergency Order of Protection is denied, but the Judge sets a hearing date on your case and if the offender lives in Lake County, the Sheriff’s Department will serve the offender with the Petition and Order setting the hearing date. However, if the offender does not live in Lake County, you will receive all of the paperwork and you will be required to deliver that paperwork to the Sheriff of the county where the offender can be found and served. The more information you provide about the offender, (i.e. home and work address, date of birth, SSN, or other addresses the offender can be found) the greater likelihood the offender will be served.

Remember, an Order of Protection is a legal document, not a shield from violence. Be aware of your surroundings and call for assistance if in doubt.

Other Locations

You should also provide a copy of your Order of Protection to your children's school and your place of employment if those locations are stipulated (included and listed) as a protected area on your Order of Protection. Also any additions or modifications to your order should be provided to these locations.