Pregnant Women and Domestic Violence: Understanding Potential Charges

Domestic violence is prevalent in the United States even though government officials, police, and community groups have tried to fight this problem. Many women continue to experience rape and physical injury by their intimate partners. Nationwide, about one in four women face domestic abuse. What is so alarming according to a new study is that 68 percent of pregnant women are killed with a firearm used by their partner. Depending on the circumstances of each case, in Illinois, domestic violence is a crime that can be considered a felony. If you are facing charges of domestic violence, you need the expertise of a criminal defense attorney.

Alarming Statistics

Unfortunately, domestic violence is often fatal and it is most likely among women who are pregnant or those who have just given birth. Researchers found that between 2009 and 2019, black women faced a higher risk of being killed compared to other groups. The new findings also suggest that laws that restrict a woman’s access to abortion increase the risk of death among pregnant women.

Great Bodily Harm and Death

In the state of Illinois, if someone commits domestic battery and it leads to great physical injury, permanent disability, or disfigurement, they can be charged with aggravated domestic battery. This would include strangulation.

If the battery occurs while the person discharged a firearm, and it caused great bodily injury or death, it could lead to 25 years in prison or up to a term of life in prison would be added to the prison term already imposed by the court.

Help with Legal Issues

While this study did not look at the potential causes of domestic violence, factors including alcohol use, jealousy, mental illness, and cultural beliefs could lead to violent impulses. At Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, we will try to get you the help that you need and protect your rights if you are facing any of the following legal issues:

• Misdemeanor or felony charges of domestic battery
• Charges for harassment and stalking
• Sexual assault charges
• Violations of a temporary restraining order or order of protection

Domestic violence charges cannot be ignored. They can have serious consequences depending on the severity of your actions. These charges can affect your employment, housing, your family relationships, and countless other parts of your life.

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL, Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are charged with domestic violence do not wait. You need to speak with a skilled Arlington Heights criminal defense attorney who will help protect your rights. Whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony charge the legal impact can be very serious. At Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law we are here to help you build a strong defense. Call 847-253-3400 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.bmj.com/content/379/bmj.o2499

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072500050K112A-3#

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=072000050HArt%2E+12%2C+Subdiv%2E+5&ActID=1876&ChapterID=53&SeqStart=21300000&SeqEnd=23400000

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=4205&ChapterID=59