Lawyer for Assault and Battery in Wheaton, Illinois

Assault Defense Attorney in DuPage County

As the old saying goes, "There are two sides to every story." In few other places is this adage demonstrated more clearly than in accusations of assault and battery. I am Wheaton defense attorney Stephen A. Brundage. If you have been charged with assault or battery in Illinois, I want to help you tell your side of the story. I know that being accused of a violent crime such as assault or battery does not automatically make it true. Criminal defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Let me protect your rights and help you develop a solid defense against assault and battery charges so that you have the best chances possible of avoiding a conviction.

Defending Against Assault and Battery Charges in DuPage and Kane Counties

Assault and battery are two different crimes under Illinois law, however, they are often charged concurrently. Assault is defined as behavior that puts someone in fear of receiving a battery. Battery is the actual physical contact with another person. Assault and battery charges may result from a bar fight, physical altercation with a neighbor, or domestic dispute with a romantic partner or family member.

An individual may be charged with assault even if the other person was not physically harmed in any way. For example, raising your fist at someone while making verbal threats may constitute assault in Illinois. Although the offense may involve actual physical violence, assault is still considered a misdemeanor criminal offense. If convicted of simple assault, you may face penalties including up to thirty days in jail, probation, community service, and/or a maximum fine of $1,500.

Assault involving a firearm or other deadly weapon, assault involving a motor vehicle, and assault against protected individuals such as senior citizens and first responders are classified as aggravated assault. A conviction for aggravated assault may be punished by up to three years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.

Battery typically includes include hitting, punching, or otherwise intentionally harming someone else. Criminal penalties for battery include up to a year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500. Aggravated battery is typically a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in jail and a maximum fine of $25,000.

Minors Charged with Juvenile Assault and Battery

Children and teenagers may face assault and battery charges for getting into a school fight or an altercation with a girlfriend or boyfriend. If your child was accused of assault or battery, he or she may be facing significant penalties, including juvenile detention. In some cases, minors are even tried as adults and subject to adult criminal penalties in Illinois. Do not make the mistake of underestimating the detrimental effect assault and battery charges can have on your child's future. Get legal support from Stephen A. Brundage, Attorney at Law now.

Call Our Office for a Confidential, Free Consultation

Assault and battery charges can jeopardize your educational and professional opportunities, personal reputation, and even your very freedom. If you or your child were charged with assault or battery, I can provide the trustworthy advice and formidable legal representation you need. I spent nine years in law enforcement, and I have three decades of experience as a criminal defense lawyer. I am fully equipped to protect your rights and present a tenacious defense on your behalf.

My team and I can investigate the charges against you or your child and find inconsistencies and holes in the prosecution's claims. I can also explain all of your legal options and help you choose the best course of action for your unique situation. If this means going to trial, I will aggressively fight in court for your freedom or your child's future.

Contact us for a free, confidential initial consultation to learn more. Call 630-260-9647 today. Stephen A. Brundage, Attorney at Law, serves clients in Wheaton, DuPage County, Kane County, Naperville, Aurora, Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Lombard, and the surrounding areas.