Does Shoving Your Partner Count as Domestic Battery - Domestic Battery Defense Attorney in Chicago

If you shove your romantic partner, can you be charged with (or convicted of) domestic battery? This guide explains.

If you’re like many people, you’re wondering, “Does shoving your partner count as domestic battery?” In the state of Illinois, the answer is yes – so here’s what you need to know.

Does Shoving Your Partner Count as Domestic Battery?

Shoving your partner – or any family or household member – counts as domestic battery under Illinois law. That means even if you push your partner out of the way because they’re blocking you from leaving, getting in your face or otherwise harassing you, you can be charged with (and found guilty of) domestic battery.

In fact, all the following acts can be construed as domestic battery:

  • Acts of intimidation
  • Biting
  • Choking
  • Kicking
  • Punching
  • Slapping
  • Sexual abuse
  • Threats of harm

The law says that “a person commits domestic battery if he or she knowingly, without legal justification, by any means: (1) causes bodily harm to any family or household member; (2) makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with any family or household member.”

Related: Can a judge make you go to anger management classes?

That means you don’t have to cause bodily harm to someone to be charged with and convicted of domestic battery. The fact that you made physical contact of “an insulting or provoking nature” with your partner is enough for a court to convict you.

The catch: You and your partner must be spouses, ex-spouses or co-parents, or you must live together or otherwise meet the criteria for a household or family member. Household or family members also include:

  • Blood-related family members
  • Co-parents
  • Current roommates
  • Elderly adults and caregivers
  • Disabled adults and caregivers
  • Former roommates
  • People related by blood through a child
  • Parents and children
  • Stepparents and children

Related: Why can’t you expunge domestic battery?

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.

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