For many people, the whole domestic battery process is a mystery – so if you’ve been charged with domestic battery in DuPage County, this guide walks you through how it works and what happens next.
Everything You Need to Know About Domestic Battery Charges in DuPage County, IL
This guide covers:
- What you should do if the police question you about domestic battery
- What happens if you’re formally charged with domestic battery in DuPage County
- Where you’ll go to court
- What to wear to court and how to act while you’re there
What Should You Do if Police Question You About Domestic Battery?
If the police question you about domestic battery, you shouldn’t say anything – even if you’re completely innocent. The police will try to get you to confess to committing a crime… and if they’re accusing you of committing it, they already think you’re guilty. Rather than making any type of a statement, you should tell the police that you won’t say anything else until you’ve spoken with an attorney. (Then, you should call us immediately at 847-920-4540.)
Even if the police arrest you, you shouldn’t say anything until you’ve talked to a lawyer.
Related: What if the person who accused you of domestic battery is lying?
What Happens if the State Charges You With Domestic Battery?
If the state formally charges you with domestic battery, a judge will have to sign off on it and then your case will be assigned to an attorney who represents the State of Illinois. The charge could range from misdemeanor domestic battery to aggravated domestic battery – or even felony aggravated domestic battery.
What happens next depends on what type of charge you face and whether or not you’ve been convicted of domestic battery in the past.
Where Will You Go to Court?
If you’re formally charged with domestic battery in DuPage County, your case will most likely be heard at the Wheaton Courthouse (505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton). It’s important that you arrive on time. Your lawyer will meet you at court.
Related: Should you talk to the police about domestic battery charges?
What to Wear to Court and How to Act While You’re There
When you go to court, it’s important that you dress appropriately. Wear a suit or a nice pair of slacks and a button-down shirt. Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free. Don’t wear jeans or shorts. You don’t have to wear a suit or dress very formally, but you do have to keep your attire conservative; remember that a court is a very formal, serious place. If all you have are work clothes, that’s okay too – just make sure they’re clean and that you don’t look sloppy.
Never wear clothes with holes in them, open-toed shoes or sandals, or clothing with slogans on it (especially slogans related to drugs or crime in general).
After you’re inside the courtroom, stay quiet and respectful at all times – even if someone says something to you that seems unfair or offensive. You can speak when it’s your turn, and politely address the judge as “Your Honor.”
It’s not easy to go through the process of being charged with domestic battery in DuPage County – but if you understand what will happen, it can help make the process smoother. If you need help with a domestic battery charge, we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to call us at 847-920-4540. We understand the process and can help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
Related: Can you refuse to testify in a domestic battery case against you?
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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