Skilled Chicago Domestic Violence Lawyer

Defending Domestic Violence Charges

• Partners / Spouse
• Ex-Partners / Ex-Spouse
• Parents Who Share a Child
• Children
• Stepchildren
• Both Current and Ex Roommates
• Caretakers and Disabled Individuals

Acts That Could Bring About Criminal Domestic Violence Charges

• Physically attacking someone
• Stalking
• Preventing someone from leaving
• Harassing someone’s employer, or co-workers or interfering with their employment
• Sending harassing text messages or making harassing phone calls
• Posting harassing / abusive / threatening comments on social media
• Verbal threats
• Preventing someone from child visitation
• Rape
• Preventing a handicapped or disabled person from receiving medical care
• Forcing someone to do things against their will
• Forcing a child to watch abusive acts

These acts can lead to many domestic violence charges, including violating an order of protection or no-stalking order, aggravated stalking, unlawful restraint, and even attempted murder.

Common Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges

When facing domestic violence charges, the right defense strategy can make all the difference. Many cases rely heavily on personal testimony and circumstantial evidence, leaving room for robust defenses to be presented. Below are some of the most common defenses utilized in these cases:

1. Self-Defense
   Defendants often argue that their actions were necessary to protect themselves or another person from immediate harm. For this defense to succeed, evidence must show that the force used was proportionate to the perceived threat and that there was no viable alternative to prevent harm.
2. False Accusations
   Domestic violence allegations are sometimes made out of spite or to gain leverage in family disputes, such as custody battles. Demonstrating inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements, providing alibis, or uncovering ulterior motives can effectively challenge the credibility of such claims.
3. Lack of Evidence
   Prosecutors must meet the burden of proof to secure a conviction. A skilled attorney can expose gaps in evidence, such as unreliable witness testimony, lack of physical proof, or discrepancies in law enforcement reports. In some cases, this can lead to charges being reduced or dismissed entirely.
4. Mutual Combat
   In situations where both parties engaged in aggressive behavior, it might be argued that the incident was a mutual altercation rather than one-sided abuse. This defense can sometimes result in reduced charges or penalties.
5. Mistaken Identity
   When allegations involve indirect evidence or an absence of eyewitnesses, it is possible to argue that the defendant was misidentified or was not present at the time of the alleged incident.

Each case requires a tailored approach based on the facts and circumstances. Consulting a knowledgeable attorney is essential to evaluate the best defense strategy.

Contact Hirsch Law Group Today

Domestic violence charges are time-sensitive. If you are accused of domestic violence, hiring a Chicago domestic violence attorney as soon as possible can be beneficial to the outcome of your case. Our attorneys at Hirsch Law Group can develop a legal strategy and explore how we, together, may best approach the charge levied against you.

Hirsch Law Group can also help those who are living in fear of someone, are facing abuse, physical assault, or threats, or are forced to do something against their will, to obtain an order of protection. 

The legal process can be confusing and stressful. Contact us today to find out how we can help.