What Should a 50-Year-Old Victim of Domestic Violence Do?

 Posted on January 25, 2024 in Divorce

For some reason, people generally think that domestic violence is mostly an issue for young couples in their twenties and thirties. Unfortunately, it is not unique to any one age group and is common among older couples too. The problem is that people can be less likely to leave an abusive relationship once they reach a certain age, for various reasons. If you are near retirement age and considering divorcing an abusive spouse, a DuPage County divorce lawyer can guide you through the process with sensitivity and respect.

What Should I Do if I Am Worried for My Immediate Safety?

If you are in the State of Illinois and at risk of being harmed by your spouse, you can be granted an Emergency Order of Protection (EOP). This is another term for an immediate and temporary restraining order. The victim/complainant’s testimony is enough for an EOP to be granted; the accused abuser does not even need to be there.

An EOP serves two purposes:

• It removes your immediate risk. The person accused of harming you is legally prohibited from coming near you, in addition to other provisions on a case-by-case basis. They might be barred from approaching your home, your office, or your church, depending on your specific circumstances. They may also be prohibited from communicating with you in any way.

• It offers a legal record of the abuse. Once there is an EOP in place, it will serve as official proof that there were even grounds for this order in the first place. Should the truth of your claims be put into question at a later date, the EOP will help to prove your side of the story. If you wish to pursue divorce, this record can help explain where you are coming from.

An EOP is available to any victim of domestic violence, regardless of their age. Violation of an EOP is punishable by law and can result in your spouse getting arrested.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Wheaton, IL, Divorce Lawyer

If you are over the age of 50 and considering divorcing your abusive spouse, DuPage County, IL, Gray Divorce Attorneys who specialize in this specific topic want to help. We have experience dealing with the complications of ending a marriage later in life. Do not let your concerns about the financial and other difficulties common with this type of later-stage divorce keep you stuck in an abusive relationship. Please call Divorce Over 50 - Goostree Law Group at 630-634-5050 to schedule a free consultation so we can advocate for you and protect your rights.