Wheaton Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Lawyers for Clients Charged With Domestic Battery or Abuse in DuPage County

Sadly, domestic violence is a problem that continues for countless families around the country, including many here in DuPage County. Domestic violence is a unique issue that often blurs the distinction between family law and criminal law, as allegations that are made in the midst of a heated marital dispute could result in criminal charges if the police get involved. Political and public pressures have put responding officers in the unenviable position of "better safe than sorry," which means that when the police respond to a domestic violence call, you could be arrested even if you did not do anything wrong. The experienced lawyers at Goostree Law Group are dedicated to helping you clear your name quickly and to protecting your rights every step of the way.

Common Domestic Violence Charges in Illinois

Under Illinois law, there are two offenses that are most often charged in domestic violence cases: violating an order of protection and domestic battery. Violating an order of protection—sometimes called a "stay-away order"—is usually a Class A misdemeanor, which carries up one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The charge, however, may be upgraded to a felony if the violation of the order involved a child.

Domestic battery is also a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense. Illinois law defines domestic battery as:

• Causing physical injury to a member of your family or household by many means without legal justification (such as self-defense); or
• Physical contact that is insulting or provoking in nature against a member of your family or household.

A domestic battery charge may be filed as a felony if you have been convicted of domestic battery in the past or if you violate an order of protection while committing the offense. In addition, a domestic battery conviction cannot be expunged from your record or sealed. The conviction will follow you for the rest of your life.

Wheaton Attorney for the Wrongfully Accused

Divorce and child-related matters are highly emotional and intensely personal. It is not uncommon, unfortunately, for angry spouses to make exaggerated claims of domestic violence to gain an advantage. Once such a claim is made, however, it may be too late for your spouse to cool down and retract the allegations. Due to the nature of domestic violence accusations, prosecutors may continue to push for a conviction.

The DuPage County law firm of Goostree Law Group has been serving clients since 2000, and our lawyers have more than 80 years of combined legal experience. We know that there are always at least two sides to every story, and we will listen carefully to your account of what happened. From there, we will conduct a full review of your arrest and the circumstances that led to it. We will work hard to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed altogether if possible. Our lawyers will negotiate with prosecutors to help you avoid a conviction, but if negotiations fail, we will fight on your behalf in the courtroom as well.

Get the Help You Need Today

If you have been arrested on charges of domestic violence, contact our office before you give any statements or answer any questions. Call 630-364-4046 for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney today. We represent clients in Wheaton, Downers Grove, Lisle, Woodridge, Warrenville, Aurora, and throughout DuPage County.