An Illinois Order of Protection (also referred to as an Interim or Plenary Order of Protection) is a court order issued to protect a person from harm or harassment from another individual. This type of order, issued by a judge, is designed to protect a victim from abuse, harassment, stalking, threats, or violence. The order can forbid an abuser from coming near the victim and their home and place of work, as well as from contacting them in any way. Interim Orders of Protection are temporary orders issued as soon as a petition for an Order of Protection is filed, and the respondent has been served with the petition. These orders may be in effect for up to 21 days until a court hearing is held for a Plenary Order of Protection, which is a longer-term order. Plenary Orders of Protection can be issued after a court hearing, and they remain in effect until a specified date. They can also be extended or modified, depending on the situation. In Illinois, an Order of Protection is legally enforceable and can be enforced by the police. If the respondent violates the order, they may be arrested and face criminal charges.