What You Should Do If You Have Been Charged with Domestic Violence

 Posted on April 24, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Domestic violence is a serious offense that can have extremely severe legal and personal consequences. If you have been charged with domestic violence, taking the situation seriously and taking steps to protect your rights and interests is essential. Remember, the first thing you should do if you are in this situation is to hire a criminal defense attorney. A domestic violence conviction can devastate someone’s life, making it imperative that you work with an attorney who will advocate for your rights and try to secure a favorable case outcome.

Steps to Take When Facing Domestic Violence Charges 

1. Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer – One of the most important things you can do if you are charged with domestic violence is to hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options, provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, and work to protect your interests and reputation.

2. Understand the Charges Against You – Of course, it is of great importance to understand what exactly you are being charged with and the consequences of those charges. In Illinois, domestic violence can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. Understanding the charges and potential consequences can help you make informed decisions about your case.

3. Follow the Court’s Orders – If you are charged with domestic violence, the court may issue a protective order or restraining order against you. You must follow the court’s orders, even if you disagree or believe them unfair. Violating a protective or restraining order can result in additional charges and penalties.

4. Gather evidence – Gathering evidence to support your case can be essential to defending against domestic violence charges. This may include collecting witness statements, gathering medical records, or obtaining evidence supporting your version of events. 

5. Avoid making statements – It is essential to avoid making statements to law enforcement, the prosecutor, or anyone else about your case without consulting with your attorney first. Anything you say can be used against you in court, and protecting your legal rights and interests is essential.

Contact Naperville Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with domestic violence, the clock is ticking. The quicker you hire a lawyer, the better. Contact the skilled Will County criminal defense lawyer with Law Office of Patricia Magaña, LLC for more information. Call 630-448-2001 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/194069.pdf