HB 3908

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986. Provides that Circuit judges and associate judges assigned to domestic violence cases are encouraged to participate in domestic violence training; such training is recommended to be developed and administered by the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts. Provides that the Office of the State's Attorney shall develop a protocol to educate victims of domestic violence requesting the issuance of orders of protection. Provides that the Office of the State's Attorney shall: (1) refer each victim of a domestic violence offense to individualized support and advocacy; (2) develop additional techniques and protocols that will enhance Assistant State's Attorneys in prosecuting domestic violence cases; (3) develop protocols to facilitate early identification of individuals with the propensity to commit escalating violence; (4) refer victims of domestic violence to accessible civil legal services; and (5) refer victims of domestic violence to such services that provide counseling, shelter, day care, or emergency financial assistance. Provides that all domestic violence protocols to be developed or updated shall incorporate applicable best practices, principles and guidelines of the most current domestic violence protocol developed for law enforcement, prosecution, and the judiciary by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.