Firearms Restraining Orders in Lake County, Illinois
In today’s world, it’s impossible to ignore the growing concern around gun violence—especially when it hits close to home. Whether it’s a partner showing signs of aggression, a family member struggling with mental health, or someone making alarming threats, the question becomes: What can you actually do to keep yourself and others safe?
Illinois has taken a step forward in offering a legal tool to help prevent potential tragedies before they happen.
What Is the Firearms Restraining Order Act?
The Firearms Restraining Order Act is a new Illinois law that lets you ask the court to temporarily take away firearms from someone in your family or household if they pose a danger to themselves or others.
This isn’t about punishing someone—it’s about preventing violence before it occurs. Whether it’s a domestic violence situation or a growing concern about someone’s mental state, this law empowers families and law enforcement to act on credible threats.
How Does It Work?
A firearms restraining order (FRO) is different from an order of protection, although the two can work together.
Here's what a firearms restraining order does:
Prohibits the person from possessing or buying guns
Requires them to turn over any firearms they already have
Allows law enforcement to get a search warrant to retrieve weapons if necessary
The process starts with a petition for an emergency order, which can be granted quickly if there's an immediate threat. A full court hearing is then scheduled to determine whether a longer six-month order is justified. If needed, that order can be extended later.
What Do You Need to Prove?
The court doesn’t take away someone’s gun rights lightly. To get a firearms restraining order, you’ll need to show real evidence that the person poses a danger. That could include:
Violating a current order of protection
Using or showing a gun in a threatening way
Making violent threats or acting aggressively
Past arrests for felonies
Substance abuse problems
Important: The law also protects against false accusations. If someone tries to misuse this process to wrongfully strip another of their rights, they can face penalties.
Domestic Violence & Guns: A Dangerous Combo
If you’re already in a situation involving domestic abuse, you might have an order of protection in place. But when guns are involved, that extra step—a firearms restraining order—can be the difference between fear and safety.
With an extensive background in handling domestic violence cases, attorney Alan Lenczycki understands how high the stakes can be. He works with clients throughout Lake and McHenry County to pursue legal protections quickly, effectively, and with compassion.
If you’re afraid for your safety or someone else’s, contact Attorney Alan Lenczycki today for a free, confidential consultation. Call 847-262-9888 or send a message to start protecting yourself with the law on your side.
**If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
For more information on Orders of Protection, Alan has created several videos with more specific details:
Illinois Orders of Protection: Part 1
Illinois Orders of Protection: Part 2, The Petitioner
Illinois Orders of Protection: Part 3, The Respondent
