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Domestic Violence in Illinois: Why You Need a Good Lawyer

The Illinois judicial system takes domestic violence very seriously. One crime of domestic violence is domestic battery, and, in Illinois, a charge of this crime can have massive ramifications for you. These far-reaching consequences could stay with you for the rest of your life. Because of the gravity of a conviction of domestic battery, you need to ensure that you are defended by a lawyer who can represent your rights and interests in court.

Domestic disputes are among the most common calls law enforcement officials answer. Accusations of domestic battery are common, although it takes proof to ensure that a case goes to court. However, a conviction will result in you spending time incarcerated, as the Illinois judicial system does not offer supervision as a remedy for this crime. The record of this crime will remain with you when you apply for employment in future. You will forfeit certain rights, such as the right to vote or own a firearm. For non-US citizens, it can result in an order of deportation.

Because of how life-altering a domestic battery conviction can be, you need to make sure you do everything you can to resolve the case. You need a good attorney to help you navigate your way through the legal system. Their advice on how to proceed can be invaluable in making sure your best interests are represented. An attorney will know how best to proceed based on their past experience. Your lawyer will know how best to challenge the prosecution’s case, whether substantively on the merits or procedurally on a technicality.

A charge of domestic battery does not mean automatic imprisonment. It is possible to argue for the reduction of the charges from domestic battery to battery. You might be able to plead guilty to a lesser charge negotiated between your attorney and the prosecution. There is also the possibility of a deferred judgment. It could incorporate community service, anger management classes, and a protection order. On completion of all the deferred judgment’s requirements, your attorney can apply to have the charge expunged from your record.