This post concludes my series on the handling of domestic violence charges in Peoria, Illinois. I felt it was important to write on this topic due to the fact that many people do not know what to expect when they have been arrested for assaulting their domestic partner. My goal with this series has been to provide information which will help defendants to better understand the process and to make a more informed decision when selecting a criminal defense attorney. If you have been arrested then it is important that you contact a lawyer immediately.
I addressed several topics over my recent articles. Issues which I have looked at included:
- What happens after a domestic violence arrest
- Defending against false domestic violence claims
- Pretrial motions in domestic violence cases
- The question of “should I plead guilty to domestic violence?”
- Taking a domestic violence case to trial
- Illinois penalties for domestic violence
It is important to understand these issues for several reasons. First, many make the mistake of thinking that a domestic assault is “no big deal” and that it is simply a private matter between two parties. This is not the case. Second, there is likely no other area of criminal law which is as likely to stem from false allegations. Third, pretrial motions are a critical component of limiting the evidence which may be introduced at trial. Fourth, knowing what to expect from trial makes it more likely that the process will go smoothly. Finally, understanding the potential penalties is key to deciding whether to defend any criminal matter.
One point I have made multiple times which bears repeating is the fact that you must take such charges seriously. Many make the mistake of thinking the case is an issue between themselves and their domestic partner. The truth of the matter is that the prosecution can bring charges regardless of whether the victim wishes them to do so. It is not uncommon for one to be prosecuted even if the victim wishes for the case to be dropped. Once you have been arrested it is now a matter between yourself and the prosecution. Contact counsel as soon as possible.
I am a former prosecutor who is familiar with our local court systems. Contact my office today to speak with an attorney. In addition to Peoria, I service the cities of Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. We also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. Additional areas where we handle federal cases include Benton, Chicago, East St. Louis, Springfield, and Urbana.