Bill > HB1904

This bill amends two existing laws related to no-contact orders: the Stalking No Contact Order Act and the Civil No Contact Order Act. The key change is that courts are now required (rather than having discretion) to award costs and attorney's fees to the petitioner when a stalking no contact order or a civil no contact order is granted. Specifically, the bill modifies the language in both acts from "may award" to "shall award" costs and attorney's fees when an order is issued. This change makes the award of legal expenses mandatory for successful petitioners, which could help reduce the financial burden on individuals seeking protection through these legal mechanisms. The no-contact orders themselves remain focused on protecting victims from threats, harassment, and potential violence by restricting the respondent's ability to approach or contact the petitioner, with special provisions for situations involving minors or school settings. The bill does not change the fundamental protections offered by these acts, but instead ensures that petitioners who successfully obtain a protective order can recover their legal expenses.

Justice

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1904&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104