What is the primary focus of the Illinois Domestic Violence Act?

The primary focus of the Illinois Domestic Violence Act is to protect individuals from physical abuse and neglect. This legislation is designed to provide immediate legal remedies and protections for victims of domestic violence, aiming to ensure their safety and well-being. It addresses various forms of abuse, including not only physical violence but also emotional and psychological harm, by allowing victims to seek protective orders and engage with social and legal services that support their situation.

While creating shelters for victims is an important component of comprehensive domestic violence intervention, shelters alone do not encompass the law's full scope. The act encompasses a broader range of protective measures and services, including legal support and law enforcement involvement. Promoting community awareness is also a vital aspect of combating domestic violence, but it serves as a supportive framework rather than the primary focus of the Act. Establishing government agencies can be part of the response to domestic violence, but it does not directly aim to protect individuals in the same way that the protections outlined in the Act do.