What Are Domestic Battery Charges in Illinois?

 Posted on December 31, 2019 in Violent Crimes

Being accused of committing a violent crime in Illinois is a very serious matter to deal with. Specific crimes of this nature can be considered to be domestic if they are committed against certain individuals. Domestic violence can often be difficult to detect, because many victims may be too scared to come forward. When accusations are made, however, they are taken very seriously, and they can lead to harsh punishments. This is why it is important to take immediate action if you are accused of committing a domestic crime.

Battery vs. Domestic Battery

Technically, battery and domestic battery are two different crimes in Illinois. For a battery crime to be considered domestic battery, the crime must have been perpetrated against a family or household member. The state of Illinois defines family or household members as people who have a certain relationship, including:

• Parents and children
• Individuals that have had a child together
• Current or former spouses
• Romantic partners
• Family members by blood or marriage
• People who currently live together or previously shared a home

What Is Domestic Battery?

Criminal charges of domestic battery can be filed if harm or physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature is inflicted upon a family or household member. Typically, domestic battery is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which means that a conviction could lead to one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines. If the person that is convicted has a history of violence, there is a possibility that the charges could be increased.

Aggravated Domestic Battery Charges

In some situations, domestic battery can be upgraded to aggravated domestic battery. The use of strangulation or the result of great bodily harm or permanent disability or disfigurement could lead to charges being increased. Aggravated domestic battery is classified as a Class 2 felony, which means that a conviction could result in three to seven years of prison time alongside fines of up to $25,000.

Our Wheaton, IL Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys Can Help

Situations dealing with accusations of domestic violence are always very personal and full of emotion. Even if allegations are not true, being blamed for domestic battery can damage your reputation and affect family relationships and child custody disputes. If you are facing any charges involving claims of domestic violence, you should immediately talk to a skilled DuPage County criminal defense lawyer. At the Davi Law Group, LLC, we will approach your case with compassion and care, and we will provide you with the legal knowledge you need to address accusations of domestic crimes. Call our office today at 630-580-6873 to set up a free consultation.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072000050K12-3.2