Domestic Violence in Illinois

 Posted on June 10, 2014 in Criminal Defense

There is no shortage of statistics on the incidence of domestic violence across the United States, though the accuracy of the numbers is questioned due to incidents of domestic violence often being unreported.

According to the Illinois State Police, it is currently estimated that a woman is beaten every 15 seconds across the country. Domestic abuse can happen among all classes and races, and does not discriminate between income level or education. Domestic violence often occurs in a pattern of threats, insults, jealous rages, and temper-fueled outbursts that are aimed at isolating and overpowering the victim.

Illinois Law

At law, domestic violence is defined as any act of abuse committed by a family or household member. The term “family member” includes spouses and former spouses, parents, children, stepchildren, persons who formerly shared a home, persons formerly involved in a romantic relationship, parents of a child in common, and disabled persons and their assistants. Of course, there is a broad range of actions that can fall under the law, including everything from physical assaults to causing psychological harm through harassment or threatening behavior.

The Domestic Violence Cycle

Domestic violence is a repeating cycle that occurs when one person tries to control another. It often involves repeating stages of the victim trying to please the abuser, the victim blaming themselves, and the victim believing the abuser’s apologies and forgiving them. It is a fact that once a violent act occurs in the context of a relationship, it is very likely that it will happen again and even get more severe.

Enforcing Illinois Law

According to the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986 and later Illinois Supreme Court rulings, domestic violence laws are enforced now more than ever. It is mandated that law enforcement acts to protect the victims of domestic abuse. This means that police officers must take steps to protect a victim of domestic abuse whenever a family or household member has committed such an act against them. The action taken by police officers includes:

• Making an arrest when they have enough information to prove a crime has been committed;

• Accompanying the victim to retrieve personal belongings from a shared home and transporting the victim to a safe place;

• Informing the victim of the procedures and relief available to them, including their right to file criminal charges against the abuser; and

• Completing a police report and providing their contact information to victims.

Criminal Defense Attorney

Domestic violence is a serious crime that deserves serious attention. If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime involving domestic violence in the Chicago area, the experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley can provide you with the expert guidance you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation in our Rolling Meadows office.