Actions and Behaviors that Result in Domestic Violence Charges

 Posted on January 23, 2017 in Domestic Violence

The Illinois State Police report that domestic violence results in more injuries that require medical attention than a number of other violent incidents combined, including rape and muggings. Every fifteen seconds, a woman is beaten in the United States, and two out of every five women who are murdered are murdered by their husbands. With staggering statistics such as these, it is no wonder domestic violence continues to draw a heavy spotlight in our communities right here in Illinois state and throughout the nation. Domestic Violence Charges Change Lives Those accused of domestic violence offenses face a range of penalties, all of which yield the power to drastically alter the offender’s life. Under the Violence Against Women Act, a domestic violence act is considered a federal crime, with prison terms ranging from five years to life, depending on the nature of the bodily injury inflicted on the victim. Along with prison time, offenders may be required to pay the victim for losses to account for any medical or psychological care, physical therapy, transportation, or temporary housing that was acquired due to the crime. They may also be held liable for child care expenses, lost income, attorney fees, and other costs that were incurred from obtaining a civil protection order. These fines, paired with jail time and damage to a reputation, can severely impact an offender’s life for the long term. What Defines Domestic Violence? According to the United States Department of Justice, a pattern of abusive behavior that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner is defined as domestic violence. There are various types of abuse, ranging from sexual and physical to emotional and psychological abuse. Actions and behaviors that are illegal and can result in criminal charges include everything from hitting, slapping, and sexual assault, to undermining someone's sense of self-worth. Calling an intimate partner names, making threats against them or their family or pets, stalking, or harassing them in any way that steals their sense of safety is an act of domestic violence. Other Types of Domestic Abuse While we hear much about extreme acts of physical abuse when it comes to the topic of domestic violence, economic abuse is another form of domestic violence that has very damaging psychological effects on victims. Offenders who make or attempt to make their intimate partner financially dependent on them by taking complete control over financial resources are guilty of this crime. This includes withholding access to money, or even forbidding or preventing their partner from attending work. This is typically done through threats, fear, and intimidation.

The range of acts that are considered by the law to be domestic violence crimes is vast. If you have been accused of any of these crimes or feel the claim against you is unjust, it is important to speak with a qualified Chicago criminal defense lawyer right away to ensure your rights are not at stake. Call the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney today at 312-629-0669 for a consultation.

 

Sources:

https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence

http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/domesticviol.cfm

https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga/victim-witness-assistance/federal-domestic-violence