A Schaumburg couple has been isolating with their children since March. One of their sons was born prematurely and has chronic lung disease. If he contracts COVID-19, it could be deadly for him. The couple is already heavily in debt from his medical expenses and therapy. Their son’s condition has also taken a toll on their marriage, making them somewhat resentful of each other. The wife had to quit her job to accommodate her son’s medical appointments and therapies. The husband, as the sole income owner, was devastated to learn that he had lost his job at a local travel company due to the coronavirus shutdowns.
The isolation and financial hardship they are facing have led to major conflict within their marriage. One day, the wife made an insulting comment about the husband not being able to earn enough money. Feeling ashamed and devastated for not being able to provide for his family, he reacted by striking her across the face for the first time ever. She called the police, and now the husband is facing domestic violence charges. Unfortunately, he is not alone. The combination of isolation from coronavirus shutdowns with the financial hardship of losing a job, or having one’s salary or hours reduced can tempt many people to snap and engage in acts of domestic violence.
Domestic Violence is on the Rise
The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence has reported that domestic violence deaths continue to increase. In a recent report, they noted that 75 people have died in Illinois due to domestic violence this year. they have also noticed an increase in suicide ideation and violent threats since the coronavirus pandemic began. There has even been a shocking number of children killed in domestic violence incidents.
Mental health is at an all-time low in the country, in part because people are unable to enjoy the support systems they usually do, such as church communities, extended family, and coworkers.
Illinois Domestic Battery Laws
Domestic violence is a crime in Illinois under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. Choking, harassing, hitting, kicking, threatening, or interfering with the freedom of another family or household member to move are all against the law in Illinois. Illinois prosecutors will bring domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery charges against those who engage in domestic violence.
A domestic battery happens when someone intentionally causes bodily harm to a household member or family member or makes physical contact in a provocative or insulting way. This crime is a class A misdemeanor, but if you already have a domestic violence conviction on your record, it will be charged as a class 4 felony. Aggravated domestic battery is a Class 2 felony That carries a penalty of at least three years in prison when the defendant has a prior domestic violence conviction.
Contact an Experienced Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
If you are facing domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery charges, it is essential that you speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. When you need a lawyer, experience matters. The skilled criminal defense lawyers at Glasgow & Olsson have successfully defended many Cook County clients against domestic violence charges. Contact our Schaumburg Law Firm today to schedule your initial consultation.