The Cook County Domestic Violence Courthouse is located south loop in downtown Chicago. The Court hears matters concerning civil orders of protection.In Illinois, individuals can petition the Court for three common protective orders: Order of Protection, Stalking No Contact Order and Civil No Contact Order. You may start the process with your local police, the State's Attorney, at your local court criminal division or with an appropriate advocate group or shelter. Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges in Illinois - Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer. Contact a domestic violence program for assistance. The Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 ushered in a new era for our state. The one exception is for familylaw cases, like divorce or custody cases. Can Charges Be Dropped Before Trial in a Domestic Violence Case in Illinois? These are very common questions that both defendants and victims often ask.