Naperville Domestic Battery Attorneys

Domestic Battery Lawyers Representing Clients in DuPage, Will, and Cook Counties

When the police are called to a domestic violence incident, it is not uncommon for one or both parties to face a domestic battery charge. Depending on the circumstances of the situation, the charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony. Any domestic battery charge should be taken seriously, however, as prosecutors in Illinois often pursue these cases aggressively. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is imperative. At J. Aldrich Law, P.C., our lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and helping you resolve your case with minimal consequences. We understand what is at stake for our clients facing domestic battery charges, and we provide a vigorous defense in every case.

Domestic Battery Laws in Illinois

Domestic battery may be charged whenever a person knowingly causes bodily harm to or “makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with a family or household member” (720 ILCS 5/12-3.2). Domestic battery is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail and $2,500 in fines. Certain factors can lead to a charge of aggravated domestic battery, however, including:

• Prior conviction for domestic battery (or a similar charge);
• Prior conviction for another felony such as murder, sexual assault, kidnapping, arson, and other violent crimes;
• If children are present during the incident; or
• If an Order of Protection was in place at the time of the incident.

Aggravated domestic battery is a Class 2 felony and has a maximum penalty of seven years in prison and a $25,000 fine for conviction. While the potential for jail time and fines is considerable, there are even more consequences to a conviction for a domestic battery charge. Such a conviction can negatively impact your child custody rights, your ability to secure future employment, and your ability to own a gun. Mounting a strong defense against these charges is crucial to safeguard your freedom and your future.

Our attorneys are skilled criminal defense attorneys. We understand the dynamics of domestic battery cases and how prosecutors treat these cases. Domestic battery charges may arise from situations that do not seem serious but can lead to serious consequences. Often these cases are “he said, she said” with very little corroborating evidence. We carefully investigate charges filed against our clients and work diligently to build strong cases for defense. Our attorneys also handle criminal appeals and expungements.

If you have been charged with domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery, contact our attorneys right away at 630-953-3000 to schedule a free initial consultation. We will discuss your case and explain your legal options. Our office is located in Naperville, and we work with clients throughout Northern Illinois, particularly in DuPage, Will, and Cook Counties.