Bloomington Domestic Violence Attorney
Are you dealing with an Order of Protection?
Due to political pressures placed on Illinois prosecutors to appear tough on any allegations that involve domestic violence allegations, both law enforcement agencies and the prosecutor’s office has been increasing aggressive in pursuing these claims.
As a Bloomington domestic violence attorney might explain to you, although any violent act towards a loved one is a serious issue, allegations of domestic violence are among some of the most fabricated or exaggerated claims, but certainly not always. 
A number of these charges are brought after a dispute, a child custody matter, or the deterioration of the relationship. Unfortunately, the prosecutor will likely zealously pursue the case; this may be true even after the accuser recants their statement or wishes to no longer press charges. That being said, it is certainly possible for domestic violence to genuinely occur, and when you’ve been charged with the crime, you can face severe penalties. Regardless of what happened or whether or not you are to blame, you should ask a Bloomington domestic violence attorney for help.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is considered to be a form of physical abuse, intimidation, interference with personal liberty, or harassment of another member who is living in the same house. Illinois considers domestic violence to be a violent criminal offense; therefore, you could be charged with a Class A Misdemeanor or a Class 4 Felony. Penalties may include:
Class A Misdemeanor
- Up to one year in jail
- A maximum fine of $2,500
- A permanent criminal record
Class 4 Felony
- One to three years in prison
- A maximum fine of $25,000
- A permanent criminal record
You may also be ordered to anger management classes, probation, counselling, or community service. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, call a Bloomington domestic violence attorney.
Long Term Consequences
In addition to the formal penalties that may come with a domestic violence charge, there may also be long term consequences that could last for several years after the incident took place. These include:
- Restrictions on where you can live
- Child custody amendments; such as, supervised visitation only
- Restraining orders to prevent you from seeing your children or loved ones
- Disqualification from getting into colleges
- Inability to get federal student loans
- Difficulty in obtaining certain jobs or professional licenses
- Deportation if you are not a U.S. citizen
- Loss of certain constitutional rights in the event of you being charged with a felony
As a Bloomington domestic violence lawyer might explain to you, the statutes around these charges allow a great deal of discretion with the prosecutor. What this means is that even though there are strict penalties, it may be possible to defer your charges, have them reduced, or dropped. Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols has extensive experience in handling domestic violence charges. We recognize the importance, albeit value, of early legal intervention which could result in a prevention of any charges being filed. Before you plead guilty or assume that you will be unable to fight your case, take a moment to find out what a Bloomington domestic violence lawyer has to say.
When You Are the Victim of Domestic Violence or Have Been Falsely Accused
In addition to helping those who may be facing domestic violence charges, we can also help those who have been the victim of domestic violence, or otherwise have been falsely accused.
Are You Dealing With An Order Of Protection?
Domestic abuse is a serious issue that must be handled with great care. Whether you need protection from an abusive spouse or have been falsely accused of domestic assault, the law firm of Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols can provide the legal representation you need. We handle restraining orders, orders of protection and other matters arising from domestic violence.
Are You Being Abused Or Have You Been Abused?
If you are being abused by your spouse or partner, you can take immediate action to protect yourself and your children. We can help you obtain a restraining order or an order of protection against your abuser. We can also handle your divorce or any other family law issue that arises as a result of the abuse.
Are You Being Stalked?
Recently Illinois has enacted a new anti-stalking law to protect individuals not previously covered by the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. The new law allows people to obtain stalking no contact orders against non-family members. These orders allow the court to take a variety of actions to prevent contact with the victim such as preventing the abuser from coming within a certain distance.
To consult a domestic violence attorney at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols in contact us online or call 309-467-3213.
