Is Pushing Your Wife Domestic Battery?

If you’re like many people, you’ve been in a physical altercation before. Maybe not with your spouse or significant other, but perhaps with someone else.

But is simply pushing your wife domestic battery?

Here’s what you need to know.

Is Pushing Your Wife Domestic Battery?

Pushing your wife can result in a domestic battery charge. The law says that you commit domestic battery when you knowingly (and without legal justification):

• Cause bodily harm to any family or household member
• Make physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with any family or household member

Domestic battery is a Class A misdemeanor – unless it’s not your first offense. If you have a prior domestic battery conviction, it’s a Class 4 felony.

If the court convicts you of a Class A misdemeanor, you’re looking at up to a year in jail. The judge in your case can also order you to pay up to $2,500 in fines. If you’re facing a Class 4 felony, the consequences are much more severe. You’re looking at up to 3 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.

What Should You Do if Your Wife Calls the Police on You for Pushing Her?

If your wife calls the police on you for pushing her, you don’t have a choice – the police will come to your location and ask you about what happened. You don’t have to admit guilt, even if you made a mistake. In fact, you shouldn’t say anything, even if it means you’re going to jail. All you have to do is let the police know that you’d like to talk to your attorney – you shouldn’t even try to tell the police your side of the story.

Here’s the deal. When the police come to your home to investigate a domestic battery charge, they’re not really looking to hear your side. They have one job, and it’s to get the “bad guy.” In this instance, they think you’re the “bad guy.”

You do have the right to an attorney, though, so make sure you use it. You can call us at any time – our number is 847-920-4540. If it’s easier, you can contact us online by using the form below. We’ll be happy to provide you with a free consultation and give you the legal advice you need.