Domestic batteries a very serious charge in the state of Illinois. If up the court convicts you, you’re facing severe consequences—and those consequences can follow you long after you’ve paid your debt to society.

So what happens if you’re convicted of domestic battery in Illinois? Here’s what you need to know.

What Happens if You’re Convicted of Domestic Battery in Illinois?

Typically, domestic battery is a misdemeanor charge. However, in some cases, domestic battery can be escalated to a felony charge.

Under the law, you’ve committed domestic battery if you knowingly and without legal justification cost bodily harm to—or made physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with—any family or household member.

That includes spouses, former spouses, and others related by blood or marriage; it can also include people who share (or have shared) a home, people who have a child in common, or people who allegedly share a blood relationships through a child. It can even applied to people who are dating or engaged, as well as to people with disabilities and their caregivers.

If the court convicts you of domestic battery as a Class A misdemeanor, which is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense (it’s one step below a felony), the judge could sentence you up to one year in jail and fine you up to $2,500.

If the court convicts you of domestic battery as a Class 4 felony, the judge can sentence you to between 1 and 3 years in prison. You could also be fined up to $25,000 and ordered to pay restitution to the alleged victim.

If you’re charged with an extended term Class 4 felony, that’s punishable by a 3-year to 6-year prison sentence.

Have You Been Accused of Domestic Battery?What Happens if You're Convicted of Domestic Battery in Illinois?

A domestic battery charge can affect you for the rest of your life. For most people, the best ideas to get in touch with a Chicago domestic battery defense attorney as soon as possible.

Your lawyer will be able to give you case-specific advice and protect your rights throughout the entire process.

If you have been accused of domestic battery in Chicago or the suburbs, call us immediately at 847-920-4540 for a free domestic battery case evaluation. We may be able to help you, so call now.