What Will Police Ask You When They Question You About a Domestic Battery Case?

If you’re like many people, you know that the police will question you if you’re accused of domestic battery – but what will they ask, what should you say, and what happens if you don’t answer? This guide explains. 

What Will Police Ask You When They Question You About a Domestic Battery Case?

When the police arrive on the scene of a domestic battery complaint, they’re going to pull out their notebooks and start asking questions. Most of the questions they’ll ask the suspect stem from asking generally, “What happened?”

The first thing you need to know is that if the police are asking you questions about domestic battery and you’re the suspect, you do not have to answer. Even if you’re completely innocent, it’s better to say, “I’d like to contact my attorney before I talk to you.”

Some people worry that calling an attorney makes them look guilty – but here’s the bottom line on that: Who cares? It doesn’t matter if the police think you’re guilty (and let’s be honest; if someone called the cops on you and they’re questioning you as if you’re a suspect, they already think you’re guilty anyway). There’s a good chance that the police are going to put you in the back of their squad car and take you to jail, regardless of what you say.

And it’s far better to have the police think you’re guilty than it is to accidentally say something that could seal the deal in front of a judge in court, when it really matters.

However, some of the questions police may ask you include:

• What started your argument or the confrontation?
• Who hit who?
• Did you hit/push/kick/strike/restrain the other person?
• Were you acting in self-defense?
• Did anyone else see the incident?

Again, even if you feel like you need to show the police that you’re innocent, it’s typically better to keep your mouth shut and avoid answering questions. The police have one job, and it’s to “get the bad guy.” If they’re questioning you because you’re suspected of committing domestic battery, there’s a good chance that they already think you’re “the bad guy,” and that means the things you say can definitely harm your case. Your best bet is to get in touch with an attorney on the spot and get immediate, case-specific legal advice.

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.