Illinois takes battery very seriously. Sometimes, battery charges are ; this guide explains aggravated battery in Chicago.
Aggravated Battery: When Battery Results in Certain Injuries
In the state of Illinois, the crime of battery occurs when one person knowingly, and without legal justification, causes bodily harm to another person or makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with another person.
Generally, battery is a Class A misdemeanor. However, when it results in certain injuries, it becomes a charge of aggravated battery. Aggravated battery is typically a Class 3 felony. However, in some cases it’s a Class two or even a Class 1 felony. The penalties are as follows:
- Class 3 felonies can put you behind bars for up to 5 years
- Class 2 felonies can put you behind bars for up to 7 years
- Class 1 felonies can put you behind bars for up to 15 years
Related: Felony defense in Chicago
What Injuries Turn Battery Into an Aggravated Battery Charge?
Though there are several other circumstances that can turn a battery charge into an aggravated battery charge, the extent of an alleged victim’s injuries are the focus of this post.
If you batter someone and cause great bodily harm, or if you cause permanent disability or disfigurement, you can be found guilty of aggravated battery in Illinois. Additionally, the court can find you guilty of aggravated battery if you cause severe and permanent disability, great bodily harm, or disfigurement by means of a:
- caustic or flammable substance
- poisonous gas
- deadly biological or chemical contaminant or agent
- radioactive substance
- bomb or explosive compound
Finally, if the victim is a child, a person with an intellectual disability, a peace officer or someone similar, the state may have sufficient grounds to charge you with aggravated battery.
Related: Can you be charged with multiple misdemeanors in one case?
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Aggravated Battery Charges in Chicago?
If you’ve been accused of a crime, we may be able to help you – and don’t worry: It’s completely confidential. Call us at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below to schedule your free, private consultation with an experienced and skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney now.
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