Can You Be Charged With Domestic Battery for Fighting With Your Roommate?

If you’re like many people, you know that domestic battery is a serious charge – but can you be charged with this crime for fighting with your roommate? This guide explains.

Can You Be Charged With Domestic Battery for Fighting With Your Roommate?

You absolutely can be charged with domestic battery for fighting with your roommate. In fact, if you knowingly and without legal justification caused bodily harm to your roommate, or you make physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with your roommate, the state of Illinois can find you guilty of this crime. That’s because people who live together are considered household members, and under Illinois law, household members count for purposes of domestic battery.

Related: Can you plead not guilty to domestic battery?

What Happens if You’re Found Guilty of Domestic Battery for Fighting With Your Roommate?

If the state of Illinois finds you guilty of domestic battery after fighting with your roommate, even if you only made “physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature,” you’re looking at a Class A misdemeanor. That means you’re facing a jail sentence of up to a year, as well as a fine of up to $2,500. And if you have a previous domestic battery conviction, your penalties could be far worse.

Related: Mandatory sentencing for aggravated domestic battery

What Should You Do if You’re Charged With Domestic Battery After Fighting With Your Roommate?

For most people, the best course of action after being charged with domestic battery for fighting with a roommate is to speak with a domestic battery defense attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will ask you several questions about the incident, including what led up to it, so he can build the best possible defense for you.

Related: What is bodily harm in a domestic violence case?

Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Domestic Battery Defense?

If you need to talk to a domestic battery defense attorney in Illinois, we’re here to help. Call us at 847-920-4540 now – we’ll be happy to give you a free consultation and talk to you about your options.