The domestic violence law named in memory of Karina Gonzalez becomes effective on Mother's Day

A law to strengthen protection for victims of domestic violence came into force on Mother's Day.

Karina's law, which was signed by governor JB Pritzker in February, deals with several risks related to weapons and domestic violence. The law enforcement authorities now have to confiscate weapons of alleged abusers within 96 hours of a judge who granted a protection order, and judges can issue a search and attack warrant against firearms.

Proponents fought for this protection for a long time. The law is named after Karina Gonzalez, which, according to the authorities, was fatally shot by her husband Jose Alvarez in July 2023. Her 15-year-old daughter Daniela was also killed and her son Manny was injured.

Manny Alvarez was 18 when his mother was killed. Since then he has been a loud lawyer for stronger laws that protect victims of domestic violence in honor of his mother and sister.

“A woman from Mexico who worked dead ends and survived an abusive husband will now save the lives of other victims of domestic violence,” he said in an Instagram homage to his mother.

“Your name, mom, survives the man who spent his life to break … but you won. And I will spend every day to ensure that the world knows.”

In the video that was published on Sunday to come into force with Karina's law, Manny Alvarez said that his mother visited college in Mexico and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer when she gave everything to move to the USA. “

“Mom, you died before you have seen me successfully,” said her son, now 20. “Before I could show you that your victims were not for nothing. But nothing can hurt me after seeing the two people I love most in this world in a coffin.”

Jose Alvarez was charged with the first degree murder, attempted murder and heavy battery to unload a firearm. He was not guilty and no hearing was determined.