In the state of Illinois, there are typically two charges of domestic violence that you can face: domestic battery and aggravated domestic battery.

It’s important that you know domestic battery only applies to family or household members under Illinois law. But who does the law considers a family member or household member?

Family Members Under Illinois Domestic Violence LawsViolence Against a Family or Household Member in Chicago

Under Illinois domestic violence laws, family members include:

  • Spouses
  • Former spouses
  • Parents
  • Children
  • Stepchildren
  • Any people related by blood
  • Any people related by present or prior marriage
  • People who have (or an allegedly have) a child in common, or any people who share (or allegedly share) a blood relationships through a child

Household Members Under Illinois Domestic Violence Laws

Under Illinois domestic violence laws, household members include:

  • People who share (or formerly shared) a common dwelling
  • People who have (or have had) a dating relationship
  • People who have (or have had) an engagement relationship
  • People with disabilities and their personal assistants and caregivers

What to Do if You’re Accused of Domestic Battery in Chicago

If you’re accused of domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery in Chicago or the suburbs, it’s probably a good idea for you to speak with a Chicago domestic battery defense attorney as soon as possible.

Your lawyer will be able to explain the entire legal process to you, walk you through potential scenarios, and fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf.

Your Chicago domestic battery defense lawyer will also answer your questions and preserve your rights. Remember that you are innocent until proven guilty; your attorney will ensure that you are given due process whether the allegations against you are founded or unfounded.

If you’ve been accused of domestic battery in Chicago, call us at 847-920-4540. We’ll be happy to give you a free domestic violence case evaluation, and the sooner you call, the sooner we can begin building a strategy for your defense.