Are you facing a Domestic Battery Criminal Charge?

In the hot summer months, particularly in July, the number of domestic battery cases in Marengo and throughout McHenry County always increases.  Perhaps it’s the heat that causes tempers to flare, but regardless of the cause, domestic violence and physical aggression that cause bodily harm to family members (most often girlfriends and wives, though there are many documented cases of spousal abuse where boyfriends and husbands have been subject to domestic battery) are taken very seriously by local law enforcement.

What constitutes domestic battery?  Hitting, kicking, biting, restraining, slapping, choking, throwing objects are comming forms of domestic battery.  Threats of violence, intimidations, sexual abuse, privation, and emotional abuse also qualify as domestic battery, as do stalking, endangerment, kidnapping, unlawful impresonment, harrassment, and trespassing.

Because conviction on a domestic battery charge can bring harsh penalties, including up to $2,500 in fines and up to 364 days in county jail, it is essential that those charged with domestic battery obtain qualified legal counsel.  Having a prior conviction of domestic can also mean that some repeat offenders can be charged as a felony and one to three years “hard time” in a penitentiary.  A related charge is Violation of Order of Protection, which is often issued against those charged or convicted of Domestic Battery.

The attorneys at Franks & Rechenberg, P.C. — David B. Franks and David N. Rechenberg – have a combined 47 years of legal experience, and as such, can assist you if you have been arrested with Domestic Battery.  Having a qualified attorney such as Mr. Franks on your side may make the difference between a harsh sentence and much lighter penalties or depending on circumstances, a suspended sentence.