Gurnee Domestic Violence Attorney

Finding The Right Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence carries a heavy stigma for the accused - and a heavier stigma for those who are convicted of these crimes. After being arrested for this offense, you may already be encountering what are known as "collateral consequences." These consequences may include things like being disciplined at school or fired from your job. One thing that nearly always happens to people who are arrested for domestic violence against a member of their household is that a temporary order of protection is put in place. This generally means that if you lived with the alleged victim, you will be unable to return to your home, and you may not be able to communicate with your family members. Clearly, being accused of domestic violence can put you in an extremely difficult position, even when you have not yet had a fair chance to defend yourself in court.

Brady Cole Trial Lawyers understands the sometimes unfair challenges that come with being arrested for domestic violence. Our team of skilled attorneys have the experience needed to help you fight back against this type of criminal charge. We will do all we can to protect your rights and preserve your future opportunities while defending you against criminal charges. The sooner you contact us after your arrest, the better we may be able to help you.

Understanding Your Domestic Violence Charge

Domestic violence and domestic battery are most commonly charged as misdemeanors, although felony charges are possible in certain severe circumstances, such as if the victim is very badly injured or if a weapon was allegedly used during the commission of the offense.

While domestic violence is often considered to be synonymous with intimate partner violence, this is not always the case. Domestic violence is generally an offense defined by the relationship between the offender and the victim, but the relationship need not be romantic in nature. You could be charged with domestic violence if the police believed that you committed a violent act against:

• A former or current romantic partner
• A member of your household, including a platonic, unrelated roommate
• A co-parent, even if you are no longer together or were never in a relationship
• A family member of your child's other parent
• A family member of your own, such as a sibling, step-parent, or aunt
• A family member of your spouse (your in-law)

Disputes between family or household members that turn physical are not uncommon. When they lead to arrests, however, lives can be ruined. If you are facing family violence charges, it is important to act quickly by securing representation from an attorney who can begin building the best possible defense as soon as possible.

How a Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help

Domestic violence arrests are nearly always made "in the heat of the moment." It is rarely clear to the police officers who respond to reports of domestic disputes exactly what has happened or who the primary aggressor was. Unfortunately, they often decide which party to arrest based on extremely limited information. They may make their decision based on which party appears calmer, which party (if any) called 911, or even their own personal familiarity with either party.

The level of confusion surrounding family violence situations often leads to mistaken or needless arrests. There may have been a false accusation levied, or a victim may be arrested for having defended themselves. In some cases, a person may be arrested when no actual violence has occurred. Much of the information the officers base their decision on may not be admissible in court.

We will carefully examine all the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest in order to put forth the strongest possible defense on your behalf.

Contact a Waukegan Domestic Violence Lawyer

Brady Cole Trial Lawyers has the skills and experience needed to fight for those who have been accused of domestic violence. We understand that these situations are often far more complex and nuanced than the charges alone let on. For a free consultation, contact us today at 847-752-9639.