Chicago Domestic Battery Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Attorney for Clients Accused of Domestic Battery in Cook County, Illinois

Domestic battery is a very serious charge that can have far-reaching consequences even if the allegations are not substantiated. In addition to the possibility of a jail sentence or probation for a conviction, these charges can negatively affect your custody and visitation rights as well as your employment and can result in a civil Order of Protection against you. If you have been accused of domestic battery or any domestic violence charge, it is essential to have experienced and aggressive legal representation in your corner. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, we understand the gravity of domestic battery charges and have the experience minimize the consequences you face.

Is Domestic Battery a Serious Crime?

If you have been charged with domestic battery, you can expect serious prosecution. For a first offense, the crime is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries up to one year in jail. On any subsequent offenses, however, you could be charged with a Class 4 felony, which is punishable by one to three years of incarceration.

You can be charged with domestic battery for causing bodily harm to someone in your family or household, or making physical contact with a family or household member in a way that is intended to insult or provoke. To qualify as domestic battery, these acts must be committed "knowingly [and] without legal justification."

Defense Strategies for Domestic Battery Charges in Chicago, IL

One possible defense against domestic battery is citing lack of intent. If you can prove that you did not intentionally injure or make physical contact with the alleged victim, the charges against you could be dismissed in court. Alternatively, if there is not enough evidence to support the charges against you, your attorney could argue that the allegations are unfounded and should not warrant a conviction.

In some circumstances, you may have an avenue to argue self-defense. To argue this defense, you must be able to prove that you used a proportional amount of force to deter an immediate, reasonable threat to your well-being. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, we can go over possible defenses for your case, developing a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Aggressive, Accessible and Affordable Domestic Battery Defense

A former prosecutor who handled domestic violence cases for the state, Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel understands how prosecutors build their cases. He uses his past experience on both sides of the courtroom to aggressively represent the rights and interests of his clients. Whether you face charges of domestic battery involving a spouse, a child or another member of your family or household, Attorney Garfinkel has the skills and experience to effectively argue on your behalf.

Dealing with the criminal legal process can be daunting for anyone. Having an attorney you can count on makes all the difference. Mr. Garfinkel promises round-the-clock accessibility and availability to his clients. We will guide you through the legal system, answer your questions and address your concerns from your first consultation through the resolution of your case. We seek to resolve your case as favorably as possible at affordable rates.

Contact Our Chicago, IL Domestic Battery Defense Attorney Today

If you have been accused of domestic battery, Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel is available 24/7 to hear your side of the story. Contact our law offices online or call us at 312-629-0669 to schedule a free initial consultation. We are also available for contact via fax and email. Mr. Garfinkel will meet you at a police station or jailhouse if necessary and is always prepared to immediately start protecting your rights and interests.