Facing an aggravated battery charge in Illinois when you are sure you acted in self-defense can be overwhelming and frustrating. Illinois law allows you to protect yourself in certain situations. However, the line between self-defense and a felony charge can be unclear. How your actions are interpreted can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal, and an experienced Chicago aggravated battery defense attorney will ensure you understand your rights and the defense strategies applicable to your case.
How Does Illinois Define Aggravated Battery?
In Illinois, statute 720 ILCS 5/12-3 defines battery as occurring when someone knowingly causes bodily harm to another person or makes physical contact in a way that is insulting or provoking in nature. When certain aggravating factors are present, such as the use of a deadly weapon or injuries causing permanent disability, the offense is elevated to aggravated battery, a felony charge defined under 720 ILCS 5/12-3.05.