Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Domestic Violence Case?
It is highly recommended that you hire a lawyer if you are facing criminal charges for domestic violence in Central Illinois. Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates, P.C. is a law firm with over 30 years of experience in criminal defense cases in Peoria IL. Also, we serve as criminal defense attorneys in Pekin IL, East Peoria IL, Tazewell County IL, and Woodford County IL. When you hire one of our attorneys, you receive the following commitments to your case:
- Our lawyers make your case as a big of a priority to them as it is to you.
- We will always answer your questions and return your phone calls.
- Plus, our lawyers put years of trial experience to work for you to present the best possible case.
- As a result, you will receive the outcome for your case that you deserve.
If you are accused of domestic violence, you are facing a complicated legal process. Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates, P.C. can provide you with an attorney to help you understand the charges and relevant potential consequences. Plus, we will also protect your rights and work to ensure a fair trial. So, contact us now to request a free case evaluation.
How Serious Are Domestic Violence Charges in Illinois?
Illinois state laws take charges of domestic violences very seriously. Penalties for domestic violence can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. However, here are some important things to consider when it comes to domestic violence in Peoria IL:
- Domestic Battery Charge
- This is considered a Class A misdemeanor under Illinois law.
- Class A misdemeanors are the most serious class of misdemeanors.
- A conviction or domestic violence can result in up to one year of jail time or probation and a $2,500 fine.
- Aggravated Domestic Battery Charge
- This type of offense is considered a felony.
- Felony convictions for aggravated domestic battery can result in lengthy jail sentences depending on the circumstances.
- Some important factors on these kinds of charges include whether a person has prior convictions, caused serious bodily harm, or used a weapon.
- Violation of an Order of Protection
- This is also considered a Class A misdemeanor.
- Like domestic battery, those convicted of violating a protection order can receive a sentence of up to one year in jail or probation and a $2,500 fine.
- The court can also impose counseling, probation, and community service time.
How Can a Lawyer Help with a Domestic Violence Case?
A qualified criminal defense attorney can play a vital role in building your defense for a case involving domestic violence in Central Illinois. Here are the many compelling reasons why you should consider hiring Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates, P.C. to help with your domestic violence case.
Legal Acumen
- Our lawyer has a deep understanding of the legal system and many years of trial experience.
- We can explain the charges against you, the consequences that you face, and available defense strategies.
- Our attorney can lead you through court processes, ensuring all necessary paperwork is filed, court deadlines are met, and the strongest defense case is presented.
Case Review
- We can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, any inconsistencies in police reports, or find constitutional violations that benefit you.
- Our attorney will build a comprehensive defense strategy by interviewing witnesses, police officers, and relevant parties.
Defense Strategies
- Our lawyer can challenge any evidence obtained unlawfully to have it thrown out.
- In some cases, our attorney can argue your actions were self-defense in defense of another person.
- Under some circumstances, we can find witnesses to testify that you were somewhere else when the alleged incident occurred.
- Our lawyer can also explore whether any mental health issues you have or experienced affected your actions.
- We will also work to prove accusations against you were false or that you were misidentified.
Negotiation
- In some cases, we can deliver the best result for your case through negotiations for a plea deal.
Trial Representation
- Our lawyers provide advocacy for your best interests during court proceedings, cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and argue your case.
- We also help with the selection of jury members that work in your best interest.
Appeals
- If you receive an unfavorable verdict, our attorney can appeal the decision. So, we can review trial transcripts, find mistakes, and argue for a reduced sentence or new trial.
Looking for Help with Domestic Violence?
Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates, P.C. can provide you with an experienced criminal defense lawyer if you need help with a case for domestic violence in Peoria IL. So, you can request a free case evaluation on our website or give us a call at 309-637-5297. Plus, we understand how important your case is to you. Thus,we make it as important to us as it is to you!