Champaign-Urbana Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Defending Individuals Accused of Domestic Battery

Illinois has a zero-tolerance policy for domestic violence. A conviction carries the possibility of jail time, fines, and a restraining order. If you’ve been accused, your future is on the line. You need to speak with a domestic violence attorney right away.

Johnson Law Group, LLC understands the fear and anxiety you may be facing while dealing with a domestic violence allegation, and we are here to help. Our team can work with you to build a strong defense and help you fight these charges. We are here to help protect your rights and your future.

Call us today at (309) 565-8825 to schedule a free consultation with our domestic violence lawyer in Champaign-Urbana.

What Is Domestic Violence in Illinois?

In Illinois, domestic violence occurs between family or household members. People with no connection outside the home, such as roommates, could be accused of domestic battery.

The law defines a family or household member as:

• A former spouse
• A current or former spouse
• Anyone you are currently dating
• Someone with whom you share a child
• The caregiver of someone with a disability
• Anyone with whom you share a living space
• The child of someone with whom you are in a relationship
• Anyone with whom you were in a dating relationship, no matter how brief

Examples of domestic involve physical abuse, such as:

• Hitting
• Choking
• Slapping

Family courts recognize emotional or mental abuse, such as harassment or stalking, and they can issue restraining orders based on these allegations.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in IL

Domestic violence is a serious offense, and a conviction can have long-lasting consequences. The penalties for a domestic violence conviction depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of the injuries and whether you have a prior conviction.

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense, you may be sentenced to up to a year in jail and ordered to pay a fine of up to $2,500. You may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim and complete counseling.

A conviction for felony domestic violence carries more severe penalties. You may be sentenced to up to 3 years in prison and ordered to pay a fine of up to $25,000. You may also be required to pay restitution to the victim and complete counseling.

Additionally, a domestic violence conviction can result in a restraining order. This order can limit your contact with the victim and require you to move out of your home. A restraining order can also affect your child custody and visitation rights.

Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges

Being charged with domestic violence does not mean you will be convicted. Our team can evaluate the evidence against you and look for possible defenses.

Some of the defense strategies we can use include:

• Claiming you were falsely accused
• Claiming you were acting in self-defense
• Claiming that any injuries the alleged victim suffered were not the result of abuse

According to the Constitution, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Our team can work to raise doubt in jurors’ minds. By doing so, we may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Why Do You Need an Attorney?

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you should not try to handle the matter on your own. An experienced attorney can help you build a strong defense, protect your rights, and work to preserve your innocence.

You can contact our Champaign-Urbana domestic violence defense team online today. We offer free consultations, so don’t wait to reach out. Our team may be able to start working on your case right away.