What to Do if You Are Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence

 Posted on December 17, 2018 in Violent Crimes

Estimates suggest there are anywhere from 2 million to 4 million domestic assaults on women each year in the United States. That wide estimate range is due to the fact many cases go unreported. Violence involving current or former partners occurs in every age, racial, religious, and socioeconomic group. Unfortunately, many individuals are wrongly accused of domestic violence because they are in the midst of contentious divorce or family law proceedings. While domestic violence orders of protection are meant to help victims or potential sufferers, a vindictive former partner can also weaponize them in an attempt to sway the tone and eventual decisions in litigation.

If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, immediately contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can serve as your advocate and ensure the truth is not drowned out by false allegations.

Domestic Violence in Illinois

In Illinois, police strive to protect victims of domestic violence, which according to legal statute may be perpetrated by:

• Family members related by blood;
• Current and former spouses;
• Parents, children, and stepchildren;
• Individuals who formerly shared the same residence;
• Persons currently in a relationship with or who previously dated or were engaged to the victim; and
• Disabled individuals and their personal assistants.

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic battery is that which causes bodily harm or involves physical contact to provoke or insult any family or household member. It is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable up to a year in jail and fine of $2,500. It escalates to a Class 4 felony if there is a previous conviction for domestic violence, violation of a protective order, or various other violent offenses. It can be charged as a Class 3 felony if a person has three prior convictions, or a Class 2 felony for four or more.

Contact a DuPage County Defense Attorney

It is difficult to expunge a domestic violence conviction once it goes on your criminal record, which is why you want to make sure that never occurs. Innocent people are often accused of domestic abuse, and when it happens, you want experienced legal representation to ensure your life is not severely impacted by someone’s personal vendetta. For a free consultation to discuss the false accusation against you, contact a Wheaton, IL domestic violence defense lawyer at 630-580-6373 today.

Sources:

http://www.idph.state.il.us/about/womenshealth/factsheets/dv.htm

http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/domesticviol.cfm

http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/women/idva.html

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