How Does Illinois Define and Penalize Domestic Battery?
More commonly referred to as domestic violence, domestic battery is an Illinois crime that addresses aggressive conduct against a family or household member. This type of crime has serious ramifications, as the perpetrator and victim have a close association with each other. Given this reality, Illinois imposes stringent laws against and penalties for domestic battery.
How Does Illinois Define Domestic Battery?
Under 720 ILCS 5/12-3.2, domestic battery occurs when a person knowingly and intentionally attacks or provokes someone in his or her family. In precise terms, a person commits domestic battery if he or she:
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Causes physical harm or injury to a family or household member; or
Initiates physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with a family or household member.
To understand the boundaries of domestic battery, it is necessary to review the definition of a family or household member under Illinois law. Under the Illinois Domestic [...]