Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people every year. If you have been accused of domestic violence in the State of Illinois, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal counsel. An experienced domestic violence defense attorney can provide invaluable advice and guidance in navigating this difficult situation.

What Is Domestic Violence?

In Illinois, domestic violence is defined as any physical abuse, harassment, or interference with personal liberty between family members or individuals who have had an intimate relationship. Domestic violence is not just physical abuse; it can also include threats, isolation, economic control, and emotional manipulation.

Illinois Laws Regarding Domestic Violence

In most cases, someone arrested for domestic violence will be charged with domestic battery. This charge involves violence or threats of violence against a domestic partner or family member. Specifically, domestic battery is defined by Illinois law as the intentional or knowing causing of bodily harm or physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature. Depending on the severity of the offense and whether any weapons were involved, domestic battery can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Aggravated Speeding Charges in Lake County Illinois—What should you do?

So, you have been pulled over in Lake County, Illinois. It’s a big one. Maybe you were going twice the limit. Maybe you hit triple digits on the radar gun. Maybe your recent driving record isn’t spotless. Is there any hope to avoid a suspension?

Lake Forest Underage Drinking Offense Attorney

As a parent, there are few things worse than getting the call that your child is in legal trouble. You likely feel helpless and anxious for your child’s future, and are not sure of the best way to help your child. One of the best decisions you can make is to speak to a knowledgeable Northbrook underage drinking defense attorney who is well-versed in the Illinois laws surrounding juvenile offenses. Matthew R. Gebhardt understands your feelings and has compassion for your situation. Attorney Gebhardt also realizes that one silly mistake should not negatively impact your child’s future. Juveniles can be charged with most all of the same crimes adults can be charged with, and while the penalties tend to be less severe than those meted out to adults, drinking and driving is the exception.

Juvenile Defense Attorney Serving Waukegan and the Northern Suburbs of Chicago

Illinois was the first state to establish a separate court for children, enacting a court system for juveniles that would soon be emulated by the rest of the nation. While most Illinois juveniles are able to avoid getting into trouble with the law, young people do make mistakes as a part of the growing-up process. One moment of poor judgment, or one bad decision should not be allowed to alter the entire course of your child's future. Despite opinions to the contrary, the vast majority of juvenile offenders are neither violent nor repeat offenders, and most deserve a second chance. If your child has been charged with a criminal offense, you are likely extremely worried about how this arrest will affect his or her future.

The sooner you speak to an experienced Illinois juvenile offense attorney, the greater likelihood of a positive outcome. The The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. have helped many parents and children who were frightened and anxious about the criminal charges filed against the minor. Our Northbrook juvenile defense attorney understands that while the Illinois juvenile justice system is different from the adult system, in some cases it is not more lenient. Turn some of your worry over to Matthew R. Gebhardt—his many years' of experience and knowledge of Florida juvenile laws will benefit your child's future.

Lake County Juvenile Crimes Your Child Could be Charged With

The most common juvenile crime is theft, or shoplifting. Other common juvenile crimes include: