Battery of an Unborn Child Charges in Skokie, Illinois

Battery of an unborn child is a serious criminal offense in Illinois that can lead to severe legal consequences. If you are facing charges of battery of an unborn child in Skokie, it is crucial to understand the nature of these charges, the potential penalties, and the importance of securing experienced legal representation to protect your rights and future.

What Constitutes Battery of an Unborn Child?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/12-3.1, battery of an unborn child occurs when an individual, without legal justification, knowingly causes bodily harm to an unborn child by injuring the mother. This charge can arise in situations where a person physically assaults a pregnant woman, leading to injury to the fetus. The following are key elements of the offense:

• Knowingly causing harm: The individual must have knowingly committed an act that resulted in harm to the unborn child.
• Injury to the fetus: The act must have caused bodily harm to the unborn child, even if the harm was not intended to affect the fetus specifically.
• Physical assault on the mother: The harm to the unborn child typically occurs as a result of a physical assault on the pregnant mother.

Penalties for Battery of an Unborn Child in Skokie

Battery of an unborn child is a serious offense in Illinois, and the penalties can vary depending on the severity of the harm caused:

• Class A Misdemeanor: In less severe cases, battery of an unborn child may be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties including up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,500.
• Class 3 Felony: If the harm caused to the unborn child is more severe, the charge can be elevated to a Class 3 felony. Penalties for a Class 3 felony include 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Permanent criminal record: A conviction for battery of an unborn child will result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, and maintain personal relationships.

Defending Against Battery of an Unborn Child Charges in Skokie

Given the serious consequences of a conviction, mounting a strong defense against battery of an unborn child charges is essential. Some potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that you knowingly caused harm to the unborn child. If there was no intent to harm the fetus, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Self-defense or defense of others: If the act was committed in self-defense or defense of another person, this could serve as a valid defense.
• Accidental harm: If the harm to the unborn child was accidental and not the result of intentional actions, this could be a defense against the charges.
• Violation of rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, such as through unlawful search and seizure, it may be possible to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie Defense Attorney for Battery of an Unborn Child?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois law and a proven track record of defending clients against charges like battery of an unborn child in Skokie and throughout Cook County. His background as a former prosecutor provides him with unique insights into the prosecution’s strategies, enabling him to build a strong and effective defense tailored to your case.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case. With his dedication to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome, Andrew is the advocate you need in these challenging legal circumstances.