This handbook provides guidance for women in Illinois who are victims of domestic violence and spouse abuse. It consists of facts about domestic violence, a survival sheet telling what to do before, during, and after incidents of domestic violence, and advice on seeking emergency assistance and shelter. It then provides advice and resources on making ends meet after victims leave their spouse or partner, including: (1) a guide to public aid, including sources of cash assistance and food stamps; (2) sources of emergency food; (3) obtaining child support payments; (4) crime victim compensation; (5) finding a new home; and (6) job referrals, job training, and day care. The last major section is a guide to the legal system and how victims can get the legal assistance they need to press charges against an abusing spouse or partner. Included is a guide to the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, criminal court proceedings for domestic battery, and civil court proceedings to settle non-criminal disputes. This section concludes with common legal questions and answers for victims of domestic abuse and a summary of the rights of victims under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. A statewide list of organizations to contact is organized alphabetically by city. (TE)