Domestic Battery in Illinois

Domestic battery is a different charge from battery in that domestic battery involves causing bodily harm to a family or household member. Second, a person can be charged with domestic battery for making contact of an insulting or provoking nature with any household or family member.

A household member can even be a roommate with no familial or romantic relationship. Other victims can be family members, children, stepchildren, or even someone you were formally in a relationship with.

Domestic Battery as a Misdemeanor and Felony

Domestic battery can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a felony charge depending on the circumstances. A Class A Misdemeanor is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $2,5000 fine. Domestic Battery can be charged as a Class 4 felony if a person has one or two prior convictions of domestic battery. The sentence for a Class 4 felony can result in 1-3 years in jail. Depending on a person’s criminal background, domestic battery can even be charged as a Class 2 felony.

Mandatory Minimum Requirements

Illinois takes domestic battery charges seriously, and imposes more stringent punishments. A charge of domestic battery is not eligible for supervision. Domestic battery is a serious charge—if you are found guilty, this charge cannot be expunged or sealed from your criminal record. If the Court finds that a child was present during the domestic battery, there is a mandatory requirement the defendant completes 300 hours of community service.This will not only affect your criminal record, but your ability to find employment.

FOID Card and Domestic Battery Charge

A conviction for domestic battery can also result in your FOID card being revoked or attempts in the future to obtain a FOID card being denied. After you are charged with domestic battery, you will have to surrender any weapons in your possession and your FOID card to your local police station.

Contact us for your Domestic Battery Charge

If you have been charged with domestic battery, you need to contact an attorney right away to start working on your case. At Villadonga & Villadonga Attorneys at Law, we have vast experience defending clients with this charge. Contact us today at 847-298-5740 to defend you in your domestic battery case.